Azerbaijani WWII hero’s legacy restored in stunning digitized version at Berlin film premiere PHOTO

On April 23, the German-language version of the legendary 1958 film On the Distant Shores, directed by Tofig Taghizade, was digitally restored and premiered in Berlin. 

The restoration was initiated by the Embassy of Azerbaijan, with significant improvements made to the image and sound quality of the film, which depicts the heroic efforts of Azerbaijani partisan and scout Mehdi Huseynzade against Nazi occupiers in Italy and Yugoslavia during World War II, Caliber.Az reports.

The film, which was originally dubbed into German in 1959 by the DEFA studio in Berlin under the title Damals in Triest, was rediscovered by the Azerbaijani Embassy in collaboration with the DEFA studio. The restoration efforts were carried out by a local company specialising in the restoration of classic films. As a result, the digitised version of the film offers a modern viewing experience while preserving the film's historical value.

The screening took place at the renowned Urania Cinema in Berlin, a prominent scientific centre, and was held to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory over fascism in World War II.

The event brought together a diverse audience, including representatives from German government institutions, ambassadors from various countries, cultural figures, scholars, film experts, journalists, and members of the Azerbaijani, Turkish, and other friendly communities living in Germany.

During the event, the Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Germany, Nasimi Aghayev, gave a speech highlighting the symbolic importance of the film. He noted that On the Distant Shores reflects not only the bravery and selflessness of the protagonist, Mehdi Huseynzadeh, but also the indomitable spirit and resilience of the Azerbaijani people. Ambassador Aghayev emphasised that Huseynzade, a dedicated fighter, became a symbol of international solidarity and heroism in the battle against fascism, sacrificing his life in the process.

The Ambassador also addressed Azerbaijan's significant contribution to the defeat of fascism, pointing out that approximately 700,000 Azerbaijanis were sent to fight in World War II, with over 300,000 losing their lives. He emphasised that Azerbaijan's contribution went beyond human resources, with the country’s energy reserves playing a crucial role in securing victory.

By Tamilla Hasanova