Achim Von Borries
Germany- Biography of Achim von Borries
- The Relevance of the Film's Theme
- Guilt and Reflection
- Research and Collaboration
- Working with Russian Actors
- The Film's Audience
Biography of Achim von Borries
Achim von Borries is a German film director known for his work in the film industry. He gained recognition for directing the drama film "4 Days in May" and is now releasing a new movie about Soviet and German soldiers coming together to protect the children of their enemies.
The Relevance of the Film's Theme
When asked about his interest in making a film about Soviet soldiers, Achim von Borries revealed that he grew up hearing stories about the war. Both of his grandfathers were soldiers who fought in World War II against the Soviet Union. One of them tragically lost his life near Kharkov and was buried there. The war and its atrocities have always remained a haunting presence for him.
Guilt and Reflection
Regarding the common belief that Germans still feel a sense of guilt about World War II, von Borries expressed that he did not personally feel guilty for the events of that time. However, he acknowledged feeling saddened and ashamed of what was done in the name of his country. This sentiment fueled his desire to explore and share stories from the war through his films.
Research and Collaboration
Achim von Borries revealed that he extensively researched the war and consulted with military experts and historians while working on the script for his film. He discovered remarkable and unbelievable stories, such as the one portrayed in his movie where a group of Red Army soldiers fought alongside their enemies to protect the children of their adversaries, sacrificing their own lives in the process.
Working with Russian Actors
When asked about his experience working with Russian actors such as Alexey Guskov, Andrey Merzlikin, and Grigory Dobrygin, von Borries described it as a genuine pleasure. However, he also admitted that having all twelve actors present in the same scene was a challenging task for a director. He praised the ability of Russian actors to command the screen with their sheer physical presence, particularly highlighting Alexey Guskov's remarkable performances.
The Film's Audience
According to von Borries, his film is not just a war movie but also a story about life, love, and the struggle to retain humanity after years of horror. He believes that this film will provide a different perspective on the war for many viewers, allowing Germany to see it through the eyes of Russia and Ukraine, and vice versa.
