Escape to Life: The Erika and Klaus Mann Story

Escape to Life: The Erika and Klaus Mann Story, the result of a remarkable pairing between fiction and non-fiction filmmakers, depicts an even more remarkable relationship. Erika and Klaus Mann, the brilliant eldest children of German author Thomas Mann, claimed to be identical twins, despite being born more than a year apart and of different genders. Living under the shadow of Hitler's rise, Erika and Klaus were intellectuals, homosexuals, and pacifists who lived as exiles. Erika was an actress whose satirical revues were censored throughout Europe. Klaus was a self-doubting writer whose banned novel, Mephisto, didn't become a bestseller until long after his suicide. Filled with contradictions, their fascinating lives stand as a testament to the power of the individual -- and art -- against the forces of history. Weiss and Speck weave a seamless blend of dramatic scenes, compelling interviews (including Mann's youngest daughter), and amazing archival footage.

"Brilliant! A stranger-than-fiction tale of fascinating lives in a troubled time." -- Loren King, The Boston Globe

"An imaginative, insightful exploration of the lives and times of two of Thomas Mann's children... The voicing by the Redgraves is an inspired stroke, underscoring the Manns' rivalry and intimacy." -- Gareth Evans, TIME OUT London

Cinema Jury Award, Best Documentary Feature: Seattle Lesbian and Gay Film Festival 2001