The Survivor

About The Survivor

The Survivor, released in 2022, brings to life the riveting and mind-bogglingly true story of Holocaust survivor Harry Haft. In the opacity of Auschwitz, Harry was compelled to box against his fellow internees, setting a grim stage for survival. Yet, Harry's sheer determination and deeply ingrained will to live combined with his physical prowess to make him a champion. The narrative doesn't shy away from the physical confrontations within the camps and the mind-numbing realities of concentration camp existence but also captures Haft's memories, love, loss and struggle for redemption.

Making / Production

The Survivor is a testament to the grit, resilience, and humanity in the face of utter inhumanity. Brought to the screen by director Barry Levinson, the film is an amalgam of powerful storytelling, meticulous set design and potent performances that recreate the chilling ambiance of a concentration camp and Harry's later life in America.

Actors

• Ben Foster: Playing the indomitable Harry Haft, Foster delivers a compelling performance that reflects the depth of Harry's suffering, courage and humanity.
• Billy Magnussen: As Alan Haft, Harry's son, Magnussen's nuanced and poignant portrayal showcases the lasting impact of Harry's past on his family.
• Danny DeVito: DeVito shines as the coach who trains Harry, capturing the complexities of a man grappling with his own past and the horror of Harry's experiences.

Trivia / Interesting facts

• The Survivor is based on the biography 'Harry Haft: Survivor of Auschwitz, Challenger of Rocky Marciano' by Alan Haft, Harry's real-life son.
• The film vividly captures the post-war era of boxing, pitting Harry Haft against professional boxers of the time.

Awards

Information regarding awards is not available at this time.

Quotes

• "Survival is the ultimate victory." - Harry Haft
• "We don't forget our past, we carry it with us." - Alan Haft

Music, Soundtrack

• The heart-wrenching musical backdrop of the film is masterfully brought up by Howard Shore, whose compositions understand and intensify the emotional beats of the movie.
• From the somber notes that accompany the harsh reality of the camps to the hopeful rare ones during Harry's liberation, the musical score is integral to the cinematic experience of The Survivor.