The Number on Great-Grandpa's Arm

About The Number on Great-Grandpa's Arm

Released in 2018, "The Number on Great-Grandpa’s Arm" is a moving and poignant short documentary that introduces Holocaust history to a new generation. This touching story interlaces an intimate conversation between a young boy and his great-grandfather, an Auschwitz survivor. The boy asks about the number tattooed on his arm, sparking a conversation about the great-grandfather's experiences during the Holocaust.

Making / Production

This short film was produced by HBO and was directed and produced by Amy Schatz. "The Number on Great-Grandpa’s Arm" innovatively blends historical footage and hand-painted animation. It skillfully melds personal narrative with historical context, the simplicity of watercolor illustrations poignantly contrasts with the grave weight of the story.

Actors

• Jack Feldman - the great-grandfather, a a Holocaust survivor. Deftly and honestly, he shares his experiences with his great-grandson.
• Elliott Saiontz - the young boy, the great-grandson of Jack. He listens with curiosity and compassion to his great-grandfather, asking questions that help guide the narrative.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film seeks to maintain the memory of the six million Jews who perished in the Holocaust as the number of persons with firsthand accounts of this horrific event dwindles.
• The narrative of the film is driven by the insightful questions of 10-year-old Elliott, thus making the recount more accessible to young viewers.

Awards

While "The Number on Great-Grandpa’s Arm" has not won any awards, it remains an important document that serves to educate and inform audiences about the Holocaust through a personal narrative.

Quotes

• “Why is it so important for people to know your story?”
• “So it doesn’t happen again. So you remember. There are plenty of people who say it never happened… And our job is to make sure that nobody forgets.”

Music, Soundtrack

The original music for this documentary was composed by Keith Kenniff. The delicate and emotional score complements the storytelling, enhancing the emotion and impact of the conversation.