UPDATE: As the world commemorates the 40th anniversary of Claude Lanzmann’s groundbreaking documentary Shoah, the film’s haunting impact remains palpable. Released in 1985, this nine-and-a-half-hour exploration of the Holocaust continues to evoke intense reactions, making it near-impossible for many viewers to engage fully with its content.
In a recent reflection shared in his memoir The Patagonian Hare, Lanzmann recounts a poignant dinner with Jean-Marie Lustiger, the late Cardinal Archbishop of Paris. Surrounded by scattered videos of Shoah, Lustiger’s agitated confession—“I’ve watched it, you see? I’ve watched it!”—reveals a deeper truth: despite the urgency and chaos of the film’s themes, even the most prominent figures struggle to confront its heavy narrative.
The film serves as a critical piece of Holocaust culture, compelling viewers to confront the unimaginable horrors of the past. Lanzmann himself described his decade-long struggle to document the Holocaust, stating, “For 12 years I tried to stare relentlessly into the black sun of the Shoah.” His dedication led to over 200 hours of footage, a testament to the film’s need for length to encapsulate its profound silences.
As the anniversary is recognized globally, the emotional weight of Shoah resonates with audiences today. Lanzmann’s ability to capture the voices and stories of Holocaust survivors, such as Abraham Bomba and Richard Glazar, underscores the documentary’s importance in preserving memory and truth. These harrowing accounts, coupled with Lanzmann’s unique approach to interviewing former perpetrators, add layers of complexity to the film’s narrative.
Reflecting on the challenges of capturing such a monumental event, Lanzmann once stated, “My homeland is my film.” His journey through Poland, where he initially believed there was “nothing to see,” turned into a profound exploration of absence and memory. The film’s relentless imagery—trains, Polish faces, and haunting landscapes—forces viewers to confront their own understanding of history.
As we honor this landmark film, it begs the question: How do we engage with the past? Lanzmann’s work, filled with silence and introspection, challenges viewers to fill those voids with their own reflections. The struggle to witness and understand the Holocaust remains a painful but essential part of human history.
Looking ahead, discussions surrounding Shoah are likely to intensify as educational institutions and cultural organizations engage with its themes. As the documentary continues to be screened worldwide, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing need to confront and remember the Holocaust, ensuring that the lessons of the past are not forgotten.
SHARE THIS: As the world reflects on this significant anniversary, Shoah remains a crucial lens through which we must examine our collective memory. Join the conversation and share your thoughts on Lanzmann’s legacy.
