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Holocaust Survivor's Story Set for 2026 Theatrical Release

12/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Trafalgar Releasing will release The Optimist on March 11, 2026, in over 700 theaters.
The film tells the story of Holocaust survivor Herbert Heller and his bond with a troubled teen, played by Stephen Lang and Elsie Fisher.
Director Finn Taylor and producer Jeanine Thomas spent a decade developing the film to honor Heller's legacy.
Kymberli Frueh of Trafalgar Releasing says the film can spark conversations and healing through storytelling.

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Story summary

Trafalgar Releasing will release The Optimist on March 11, 2026, in over 700 theaters.
The film tells the story of Holocaust survivor Herbert Heller and his bond with a troubled teen, played by Stephen Lang and Elsie Fisher.
Director Finn Taylor and producer Jeanine Thomas spent a decade developing the film to honor Heller's legacy.
Kymberli Frueh of Trafalgar Releasing says the film can spark conversations and healing through storytelling.