The Optimists

 

 

 

The dramatic story of how 50,000 Bulgarian Jews survived the Holocaust despite the intense efforts of their government to deport them. The Optimists tells how people of all ethnic backgrounds stood by their Jewish neighbors, in times of persecution. Experience that offers valuable insight into how people can mobilize to defend human rights.

“A rare documentary . . . compact and elegant.”
– Dana Stevens, New York Times

“Courage amid Cruelty”
– Kenneth Turan, Los Angeles Times

“Uplifting documentary . . . fascinating story.”
– Ken Fox, TV Guide

“ A miraculous sharp movie.”
– Patrick Z. McGavin, Chicago Tribune

“Individuals triumph over odds in inspiring ‘Optimists’.”
– Hedy Weiss, Chicago Sun Times

“Potent and gripping. . . . an extraordinary set of circumstances”
– Sarah Madsen Hardy, Boston Globe

“ As a human sentiment, it’s touching to behold.”.
– James Crawford, Village Voice

“A rare instance of humanity during the Holocaust.”
– Chad Frade, Time Out New York

“This film celebrates the human spirit.
It offers hope that people can learn to live together in peace.”
– Leora Frucht, The Jerusalem Post

“A must see documentary . . . . memorable”
– Masha Leon, Forward

“A moving tribute to moral courage”
– George Robinson, Jewish Week

“ Spellbinding. . . A message of inspiration and hope.”
– Bruce Ingram, Pioneer Press.

“ The message is so powerful . . . one of the best films of the year.”
– George O. Singleton,ReelMovieCritic

“Engaging documentary . . . moving and heartwarming”
– The NYC Movie Guru

“ The Optimists is a wonderful film . . . a moving testament to human decency.”
– Annette Insdorf, Author of “Indelible Shadows: Film and the Holocaust.”

“ A powerful and heartwarming story which deserves to be seen and discussed. ”
– Rabbi Peter Knobel, Beth Emet, The Free Synagogue.