Director Norbert Lechner discusses the importance of educating children about National Socialism through film with the release of his upcoming movie, "The Secret Floor."
Norbert Lechner's upcoming film, "The Secret Floor," is set to premiere on March 12 and will also open the Schulkinowoche Bayern, a school film week in Bavaria. In an interview, Lechner emphasizes the urgency of teaching children about the National Socialist era earlier in their education, arguing that the rise of fascist ideology in society necessitates proactive measures to combat it through education and cinema.
Lechner describes his film as a powerful tool for historical education, following the journey of a twelve-year-old who travels back to 1938. He believes that engaging narratives, such as those offered in films, can be particularly effective in reaching younger audiences and sparking meaningful discussions about the dangers of totalitarian ideologies. His work has already garnered significant acclaim, receiving several awards even before its public release.
In light of rising far-right sentiments, Lechner's efforts are seen as vital in countering the normalization of extremist ideas. He hopes that "The Secret Floor" inspires both children and educators to confront challenging historical topics and fosters a more informed public that can resist the allure of extremist ideologies.
