A tale of victory, shining a spotlight on virtues like benevolence, humility, and compassion, the film “One Life” starring Anthony Hopkins stands out for its remarkable narrative, especially considering its basis on true events.
In the tumultuous period of 1938-39, amidst the Nazi regime’s grip on Czechoslovakia and the looming shadow of World War II, Nicholas Winton, a London stockbroker, found himself in Prague where he made a pivotal decision. Confronted with the harrowing situation of stranded refugees facing the horrors of imprisonment and deportation to extermination camps, Winton took it upon himself to act.
Displaying immense courage and heroism, Winton orchestrated the rescue of 669 predominantly Jewish children. He navigated the bureaucracy to secure British visas for each child, organized foster care arrangements, and even covered the necessary 50-pound government fee.
Despite the magnitude of his actions, Winton’s deeds remained largely unrecognized until 1988 when he appeared on a live BBC-TV show, reuniting with one of the children he had saved. This marked a turning point in Winton’s life, leading to widespread acknowledgment, emotional reunions with the rescued individuals from the Prague kindertransport, and a legacy that endured until his passing at the remarkable age of 106 in 2015.
In the cinematic depiction of “One Life,” Anthony Hopkins embodies the elderly Winton, while Helena Bonham Carter portrays his mother during the wartime era.
More recently, Winton’s son, Nick Winton, and Eva Paddock, an 88-year-old survivor of the kindertransport, offered their perspectives in a London interview.
Reflecting on her past, Paddock shared her recollections of the journey portrayed in the film, where she and her sister Milena embarked on a train to safety. Their arrival at a family office station in Liverpool Street led to a stroke of luck as they were welcomed by a couple in northern England who had initially planned to host only one child. However, the unbreakable bond between the sisters resulted in their joint placement in foster care, defying the odds of separation.
The sisters’ reunion with their parents in 1940 marked a poignant moment of familial togetherness after a period of turmoil and uncertainty.
Eva Paddock fondly reminisced about her interaction with Winton following his public recognition. She highlighted the profound impact of his actions and the overwhelming gratitude and admiration expressed by those whose lives he had transformed.
Nick Winton emphasized his father’s modesty and genuine connection with people, highlighting Winton’s reluctance to seek acclaim for his altruistic acts. The true extent of his father’s heroism was unveiled during a significant moment captured on ‘That’s Life!’ when the rescued children rose in acknowledgment.
Endorsing the authenticity and excellence of the film “One Life,” Eva stressed the vital role of Holocaust education encapsulated within the storyline. As one of the last witnesses to these historic events, she underscored the importance of preserving this poignant narrative for future generations.
“One Life” is scheduled to premiere on March 15, promising a captivating portrayal of bravery, empathy, and the enduring influence of one individual’s selfless deeds.