Watch Defying the Nazis: The Sharps' War

Defying the Nazis: The Sharps' War is a documentary film directed by Ken Burns and Artemis Joukowsky. The film is a captivating portrayal of a courageous and selfless couple, Waitstill and Martha Sharp, who risked their lives to help Jews and other persecuted people escape from the clutches of the Nazis during World War II.

Waitstill and Martha Sharp were an ordinary American couple from Massachusetts when they decided to embark on a dangerous mission to save the lives of countless people who were being persecuted by the Nazis. The Sharps were among the few Americans who defied the isolationist policy of their government and traveled to Europe to help refugees.

The documentary film is narrated by Tom Hanks and features interviews with Martha's daughter Susan and other individuals who were saved by the Sharps. Through rare archival footage and photographs, the film takes viewers on a journey back in time to witness the bravery and compassion of the Sharps.

As the Sharps journeyed to Europe, they faced many challenges and dangers, including arrests, interrogations, and death threats by the Nazis. But their determination and courage never wavered, and they continued to carry out their mission with unwavering commitment.

The film offers a detailed account of the events that unfolded during their mission, from the Sharps' initial recruitment by the Unitarian Church to their journey across Europe and their eventual return to the United States. It also sheds light on the dangers and difficulties faced by refugees at the time, such as the infamous Kindertransport, which was designed to rescue Jewish refugee children from Nazi Germany.

Defying the Nazis: The Sharps' War is a powerful testament to the human spirit, and serves as a poignant reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of those who risked their lives to help others during one of the darkest times in human history. It is a story of hope and courage that deserves to be remembered and celebrated.

Marina Goldman's performance in the film is stellar, and her portrayal of Martha Sharp is both moving and authentic. Her commitment to the role is evident in every scene, and she does an excellent job of bringing Martha's remarkable story to life.

Despite its heavy subject matter, Defying the Nazis: The Sharps' War is a masterfully crafted film that manages to inspire and uplift. It is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit, and a tribute to the courage and compassion of those who risked everything to help others in need.

Overall, Defying the Nazis: The Sharps' War is a must-watch for anyone interested in history, human rights, or the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity. It is a heart-wrenching and inspiring story that will leave viewers feeling both humbled and inspired.

Defying the Nazis: The Sharps' War is a series that ran for 1 seasons (1 episodes) between September 20, 2016 and on Amazon Addon