Screening
The Optimist
Date & Time
Location
Museum of Tolerance 9786 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90035
FREE UNDERGROUND PARKING
About
Based on a true story, The Optimist follows Holocaust survivor Herbert Heller and the unlikely friendship that transforms two lives. At 15, Herbert escaped the Auschwitz-Birkenau death march, carrying the weight of silence for six decades. When he finally breaks that silence, he forms a life-saving bond with Abby, a troubled teenager confronting her own pain. Together, they discover hope, healing, and the transformative power of being truly seen.
The film concludes with a special musical performance by violinist Jenny Scheinman.
A Q&A will follow the screening featuring director Finn Taylor, producer Jeanine Thomas, actors Stephen Lang and Luke David Blumm, and Herbert’s grandson, Daniel Cohen.
Guests are invited to a reception immediately following the conversation.
This event is offered free of charge. RSVP required. Register here.
More Upcoming Events
Speaker Series
Deena Goodman
Hear from Witness to Truth speakers as they share personal accounts—either their own or their parent’s experiences during the Holocaust.
Program
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