»Martin Pollack: Looking into the Abyss«
Film Screening at ERSTE Foundation

11 March 2026, 18:00 – 19:30
Vienna

»For the documentary, I set out on a search for traces, with Martin Pollack’s book ›Der Tote im Bunker‹ in my hand, which I translated into Slovak. This reportage resonated strongly in Slovakia. It tells the family history of Gerhard Bast, born in 1911, SS-Sturmbannführer, member of the Gestapo, and biological father of Martin Pollack. Two people, two very different lives: one shaped by violence and war, the other that of a passionate advocate for democracy and an open society.

Due to health reasons, Martin Pollack was no longer able to travel. Therefore, together with a camera crew, I set off myself, from central Slovakia to the bunker at the Brenner Pass. An unforgettable European journey through the topography of terror and memory.«

Michal Hvorecký

A documentary by Jaro Vojtek, executive produced by Roman Pivovarník. (2024, SK)

Film Screening, 60 min.

The documentary is in German and Slovak, with English subtitles.

With an introduction by Michal Hvorecký

Refreshments afterwards

Please note: Some content may be disturbing! Registration required.

Register here