HOLOCAUST DOCUMENTARY CAPTIVATES SYDNEY AUDIENCE
‘Poignant and impactful’ personal story
MORE than 120 people packed the Ritz Cinema in Randwick on Sunday for the Sydney public debut of Reflections of Courage – an award-winning documentary that has been moving audiences around the world.
The 50-minute film, directed by Janet Shay and featuring Holocaust survivor Eddy Boas’s remarkable first-hand account, has captured major international recognition with awards in Los Angeles, New York and Cannes, and recently won Best Australian Documentary at the Melbourne Documentary Film Festival.
Following the screening, Boas was interviewed on stage by Sky News journalist Caroline Marcus.
JCA president Ian Sandler described the documentary as “deeply moving” and a powerful reminder of the importance of continuing to tell these stories, “especially in today’s world with antisemitism is again on the rise”.
“History has shown us where hatred and intolerance can lead when left unchecked, and films like this play a vital role in ensuring that we never forget,” said Sandler.
“Kol Hakavod Eddy on creating such a poignant and impactful work.”
Through rare archival footage, evocative editing and a haunting original score, the documentary brings to life a deeply personal story of survival and resilience that left audience members visibly moved by its honesty and emotional depth.
Cynthia Wrublewski said the documentary was “both emotional and informative”, adding that “the Holocaust should never be forgotten and should be taught to the new generations as an example of inhumanity and true genocide”.
Elaine Black was captivated by both the storytelling and the filmmaking craft.
“I was so taken by your film – it is absolutely wonderful on so many levels, unique in its genre, pivoting around your frank, matter-of-fact storytelling,” she said.
“Learning of your amazing and beautiful mother and your strong, fine father was extraordinary.
“The brilliance of Janet’s production, the incredible library footage and the exceptional music and editing – what a great team you had.”
The film stands as more than a testament to survival and family – it serves as a vital warning about where indifference and hatred can lead. As one attendee pointedly observed, the events portrayed show “how it all started in Germany”, a stark reminder that history’s lessons remain as urgent as ever.
Reflections of Courage continues to reach audiences across Australia and abroad, proving that memory itself is an act of courage – and one that has never been more necessary.
From left: Eddy Boas, Karl Jenner and Janet Shay at the screening.
AJN STAFF October 17, 2025 | Tishrei 25, 5786 | AJN 3 Community Heartbeat
