New Family Film “The Secret Floor” Uses Time Travel to Teach Children About Nazi Era

A new German-Austrian-Luxembourgish film is tackling a difficult historical period for young audiences. “The Secret Floor” uses a magical time portal to transport a modern child to 1938. The film aims to educate children about the rise of Nazi Germany in an accessible way.It recently won awards at international family film festivals. Director Norbert Lechner hopes it will spark important conversations at home and in schools.

A Magical Portal to a Dark Past

The story follows twelve-year-old Karli. He moves to an old Alpine hotel and discovers a secret elevator. This magical portal sends him back to 1938, just as Nazi influence is growing.There, he befriends Hannah, a Jewish girl, and Georg, a shoeshine boy. The children work together to solve a mystery. They must clear Georg’s name after a false theft accusation.The film blends adventure with historical context. It shows the increasing dangers for Jewish people during that time. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the director wanted to make this history relatable without traumatizing young viewers.

Creating a Bridge Between Past and Present

The film’s dual timeline is a key strength. It connects the past directly to the present day. This prevents young audiences from distancing themselves from the historical events.Director Norbert Lechner explained this approach to The Hollywood Reporter. He said a story set only in the past can feel distant. Having a modern child travel back makes the history feel more immediate and real for today’s youth.The film uses culture clashes for lighter moments. Karli’s modern knowledge and technology confuse the 1938 children. These humorous interactions balance the heavier historical themes.

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“The Secret Floor” offers a unique gateway for families to discuss difficult history. Its time-travel premise makes confronting the Nazi era accessible for a new generation.

Thought you’d like to know

What is the main plot of “The Secret Floor”?

A boy discovers a magical elevator in his new hotel home. It transports him to 1938, where he befriends local children. Together they solve a mystery as Nazi influence grows around them.

Is this film appropriate for young children?

Yes, it was designed specifically for family viewing. The filmmakers carefully present historical realities without graphic content. It uses adventure and friendship to frame the difficult subject matter.

Where was the movie filmed?

Production took place at two former hotels in Austria. Additional filming occurred in Luxembourg. The authentic locations help create the film’s atmospheric setting.

Has the film won any awards?

It earned the children’s jury award at the Zlín Film Festival. It also won best feature film and best actor at Germany’s Goldener Spatz. The Giffoni Film Festival awarded it the Tommy Hilfiger Special Award.

Why use time travel to teach about Nazi Germany?

The director wanted to make history immediate for modern children. A pure historical drama might feel too distant. Time travel bridges that gap effectively.