“they left saying it was the best documentary they had ever seen”
We were fortunate to have been able to screen the film, The Unimaginable Journey of Peter Ertel, in September of 2018 as a library program. I don’t know what expectations people had in coming to see it, but they left saying that it was the best documentary they had ever seen. Joe Cahn was able to make this treasure when Peter Ertel was in his 90s, and he captured a rare glimpse for us of the experience and perspective of a reluctant German soldier. This film is a must-see for everyone, especially those who think they know the whole story.
- Linda Feaster, former Branch Manager, Long Beach Island Branch, Ocean County Library
“beautifully done story”
Reconciliation and redemption are threads that connect Ertel's life with others who seek to come to terms with World War II and its aftermath. This beautifully done story of a beautiful soul is rich soil for any discussion of the power of hope and love in the struggle between good and evil.
- Rev. John Corrado, Minister Emeritus, Grosse Pointe Unitarian Church
“i hung on every word he said”
The Unimaginable Journey of Peter Ertel has particular relevance today as the world may be careening towards a return to nationalism that brought World Wars I and II to the 20th century and threaten our globe today. What are the lessons for today’s world, and its leaders, educated in our universities? The humanity and decency that was embodied in the life of Mr. Ertel. His clear sense of ethical behavior and positive attitude toward the miracles that life provides were expressed so simply that I hung on every word he said.
- Jim Curley, former Humanities teacher at Sacred Heart and Villanova Universities
“Adaptable to courses in history, philosophy, ethics, humanities, psychology, and sociology”
Peter Ertel’s odyssey is a study in humanity, tolerance and forgiveness, all of which make this film a unique educational tool adaptable to courses in history, philosophy, ethics, humanities, psychology, and sociology. I use it in my Philosophy, Humanities, and Ethics classes. I highly recommend the film as a tool of utility in developing a unit, lesson, or as an adjunct to a theme.
- Kenneth J. Konchan, Professor, Cuyahoga Community College
“A perfect analysis of ethics”
I don’t think there could be a better film to end this class with. The Unimaginable Journey of Peter Ertel is, to me, a perfect analysis of ethics which delved into the mindset of a German soldier who sought to bring good to an evil he was forced to be a part of. I have been deeply moved.
- Miranda F., College Student
"Captures how ethical decisions can create ethical outcomes"
This documentary was a great way to end ‘Ethics’ because of the decisions Peter had to make and how he made them. It captures how ethical decisions can create ethical outcomes, as well as how the utilitarian and deontological point-of-views are portrayed.
- Alyssa W., College Student
"about ‘selfhood’ and finding one’s purpose in life"
A great documentary to end Ethics class with because it’s all about “selfhood” and finding one’s purpose in life. I enjoyed watching it and even shed tears at some parts.
- Salina M., College Student
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If you are a non-government organization or academic institution and would like to screen the film at a conference or other event, please fill out this form to explain what you have in mind and we will respond with a screening fee quote.
We offer all interested organizations and institutions a free online preview of the film. Please send us your request for a preview using our contact form (or e-mail us at peterertelfilm@gmail.com) and we will send you the link and password to watch the film online.