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Never Give Up: The 20th Century Odyssey of Herbert Zipper

Where to Watch Never Give Up: The 20th Century Odyssey of Herbert Zipper

NR
1995

Never Give Up: The 20th Century Odyssey of Herbert Zipper is a documentary film released in 1995, exploring the inspiring life story of renowned musician, conductor, and music educator Herbert Zipper. The film dives deep into the intriguing life journey of Zipper, uncovering his survival and heroism against the dark backdrop of World War II. Even though the war tried its utmost to belittle and squash his spirit, Zipper refused to capitulate. Instead, he sought solace, hope, and resilience in his passion for music, anchoring him throughout the tumultuous times.

The movie begins, fittingly, with Zipper’s formative years. Born in 1904 in Vienna, Austria, he showed signs of musical prodigy early on. Consequently, his talents were nurtured by the finest music teachers in a city renowned globally for its rich legacy in classical music. However, the film quickly moves from Vienna's well-heeled streets and concert halls to the concentration camps of the Nazis. In turn, the role of music changes from being a profession to a lifeline.

As history tragically unfolded, Herbert Zipper, being of Jewish descent, was imprisoned in Nazi concentration camps, an experience that could have decimated lesser spirits. The documentary captures these harrowing scenes, detailing the despair and torture faced by the prisoners. Yet, in this sordid setting, Zipper managed to harness the power of music as a means of spiritual defiance against the horrors surrounding him. He even organized and conducted a secret orchestra, riskily playing forbidden music to lift the prisoners' spirits.

From Dachau and Buchenwald to Santo Tomas in the Philippines, the movie charts Zipper's incredible journey towards freedom. After all, he was not only a survivor; he was an individual who could never be tamed, never be muted. His resounding motto "Never Give Up" is a constant feature of the film and gives viewers an insight into his unwavering conviction and defiance in the face of adversity.

The second half of the film narrates the extraordinary arc of Zipper's life post-liberation. Instead of choosing bitterness, he rose like a phoenix from the ashes and spread the joy of music globally. Settling in the United States, he continued to contribute to music education, becoming a patron and iconic advocate for community orchestras and youth orchestras nationwide.

The film chronicles his eminent role in the development of the Music Center before serving as the director of orchestras at LAUSD. His many ambitious projects, like the 'Symphony for Youth' program, made classical music accessible to multitudes, especially young people, emphasizing the enrichment and intellectual advancement it could provide.

Directed by Terry Sanders and Freida Lee Mock, the documentary is a profound account of one man's unyielding spirit. It’s a testament to the potential of the human spirit to endure, defy, and ultimately, prevail. It is measured and respectful in its portrayal of the Holocaust, offering perspectives of an era that the world must never forget. The directors skillfully interweave archival footage, personal interviews, and authentic photographs to truly immerse the viewer into Zipper's world.

In the movie, Herbert Zipper himself, despite being in his nineties at the time of filming, is a commanding presence. His impactful storytelling, marked by his dark humor and painful memories, is awe-inspiring. His vivid recounting of the horrors of the concentration camps and his defiant acts of musical rebellion leaves an indelible mark. His narrative, not just a survivor's tale, but a story of artistic defiance, provides an in-depth look into the human capacity to find hope in despair, artistry in tyranny.

Never Give Up: The 20th Century Odyssey of Herbert Zipper offers an inspiring perspective on how the power of music and art can not only serve as a saving grace in our darkest hours, but also as the foundation for progressive cultural and educational movements in the modern age. It is a tribute to Zipper's enduring legacy, reminding viewers of the incredible power of music and the human spirit to inspire, protest, heal, and ultimately triumph.

Never Give Up: The 20th Century Odyssey of Herbert Zipper is a Documentary movie released in 1995. It has a runtime of 40 minutes Critics and viewers have rated it moderate reviews, with an IMDb score of 5.9..

5.9/10
Director
Terry Sanders