Feature Film (2015).
My first feature film, and first film credit.
Pockets of Hope is a documentary of hope beyond hate, music beyond tears.
In Europe today, there is an alarming resurgence of anti-Semitism. Surprisingly, Poland is one of the few countries in Europe now trying to reconcile with the history of horror on its home soil.
Tiny remnants of Polish Jewry survived and many survivors and their children hold painful memories and harbour anger towards Poland.
Fay Sussman was born in Poland and until recently, vowed never to return to the country of her birth. Overcoming her fears and the anger she inherited, Fay was persuaded to make this conflicted pilgrimage as a gesture of hope and support to the growing number of Poles Jewish memory alive in their towns.
Through music, Fay is able to bring Yiddish culture to audiences longing to reconnect with the 1000-year history of Jewish life in Poland.
This feature length documentary is woven with Klezmer music, inspiring stories and hope for the future.
Directors: Judy Menczel & Paul Green
Producer: Judy Menczel
Editor: Rolmar Baldonado
Composer: Sam Weiss