Now as stream in german language with english subtitles!
Based on a true story by Paula Morandell-Atz
A film by Hubert and Matthias Schönegger
My Way Back is a powerful and deeply moving film that tells the true story of a mother and
her five children, forced to flee again and again in the chaos of World War II. Set between
1939 and 1946, the film brings to life the emotional and physical toll of war—seen through
the eyes of a young girl.
Paula Morandell-Atz was born in Kaltern, South Tyrol, in 1934. As a child, she emigrated with
her family to Baden near Vienna under the so-called "Option Agreement." More siblings
were born there. But when the war reached its climax in 1945, Paula—just eleven years
old—was forced to flee with her mother and brothers from the advancing Russian army.
Their route took them over the Semmering Pass to Bischofshofen, then on to Innsbruck, and
finally—after unimaginable hardships—across the Brenner Pass back to their homeland in
South Tyrol.
What awaited them there was not peace, but prejudice. Labeled as "Gypsies" and outcasts,
the children were separated and sent to live with different relatives, as their mother could
no longer care for them alone. Their father, serving in Yugoslavia during the war, was denied
re-entry into the country for several years. Tragedy continued to strike: one of Paula’s
brothers drowned in Lake Kaltern; later, Paula lost a child shortly after birth.
Yet despite all of this, Paula found the strength to rebuild. With hard work, determination,
and an unshakable spirit, she became a successful small business owner and traveled the
world.
Based on her personal diaries, My Way Back combines documentary realism with powerful
dramatic reenactments to tell a story that mirrors the experiences of countless families
across Europe during and after the war. At its heart, this is a story of resilience, love, and the
will to keep going—even when everything seems lost.
Duration ca.63 min.
Language: German
Subtitles: English
