What's Happening?
The film 'The Swedish Connection' tells the story of Gösta Engzell, a Swedish bureaucrat who used his position to save thousands of Jewish lives during World War II. Played by Henrik Dorsin, Engzell is depicted as a modest civil servant who, with the help of a principled colleague, begins processing visas for Norwegian Jews, defying the Swedish government's policy of neutrality. The film portrays Engzell's use of bureaucratic loopholes to outmaneuver Nazi authorities, highlighting the power of paperwork and diplomacy in the face of genocide.
Why It's Important?
This film sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of World War II history, emphasizing the impact that individual actions can have in times of moral crisis. By focusing on Engzell's story, the film highlights
the role of bureaucrats and diplomats in humanitarian efforts, offering a narrative of hope and resistance. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of moral courage and the potential for ordinary individuals to effect significant change.
