During the presentation, which was attended by Gina, journalist and KSI member Alexandra Ciniglio led the discussion where members had the opportunity to see how the short film was shot as well as listen to recorded testimonials from Gerta herself, which served as inspiration and guidance for the production.
In addition, people from the audience took the floor to share the experiences they exchanged with dear Gerta. At the end, the KSI Sisterhood offered refreshments for the attendees.
Gerta’s Smile is a tribute to Gerta Stern, an Austrian Jewish woman, who fled the Nazis and lived in Panama for the rest of her life. Gerta passed away at the age of 102, leaving behind a legacy of strength, love, compassion and, above all, positive energy and laughter, even in the most difficult moments.
The quality of this short film has been applauded internationally, earning it a place in the official selection of some festivals such as the Cannes World Film Festival, the Los Angeles Film Awards and the New York Film Festival, to mention just a few.
Synopsis:
In 1938, Gerta and Munio Stern, an Austrian Jewish couple concerned about growing anti-Semitism, arrive in Hamburg to pick up their visas to go to South Africa. At the Embassy they are told that the visas are delayed, when in fact all countries have suspended giving visas to Jews. Munio is arrested on Kristallnacht and sent to Sachsenhausen concentration camp. Gerta tries to obtain visas in an unexpected destination: Panama, and looks for a way to free her husband from prison so they can escape together.
