This project began over 6 years ago when I received a special gift in the mail. It was the memoir of my long time family friend Ernst Van Gelderen. I was so moved after reading it that I asked Ernst if my new production partner, Michael Kleven, and I could film his story. Incredibly, he said yes and thus begins our journey of bringing his Holocaust story to the screen. 

We have filmed both internationally and in the US, recreated 1940s Holland and spent countless hours editing, reworking and getting the film just right. We are now very close to the finish line and we can't be more thrilled. Michael and I are so honored to release this film to the world. 

We just need a few post-production items to have it reach the best level that it can. Then we want to start putting some funding towards our plan for outreach and engagement. We already have interest from Dutch Public Television and many educational organizations such the Anne Frank Center, The Holocaust Center for Humanity and the University of Washington.

Here is what we need to finish the film:

*Audio sweetening and sound FX

*Color correction 

*Originally composed music from world renowned musician Anat Cohen

plus costs to apply to several key film festivals and begin our educational multimedia presentation campaign!

Thank you so much for your support!

Elke Hautala (& Michael Kleven)

Heartstone Studios