Sophie Nelisse is excited about her film, *Irena's Vow*, hitting theaters for a special two-day screening. The movie tells the story of Irena Gut Opdyke, a courageous Polish nurse who risked her life to hide Jewish people from the Nazis during World War II. At just 24, Nelisse takes on the lead role, embodying the bravery and selflessness of this unsung hero.
In a recent Zoom interview with UPI, Nelisse shared her admiration for Gut Opdyke, noting, "She was never one to want to draw attention. She was a hero who operated in the shadows. Maybe that's why her story is not [well] known and that's why it's important to tell her story."
Gut Opdyke began to share her experiences only in 1975, and *Irena's Vow* is based on a play by Dan Gordon, who spoke with her extensively before her passing in 2003. Nelisse recounted an impactful moment in Gut Opdyke's life, when a Holocaust denier called her, sparking her decision to speak out and share her story with the world.
The film also explores Gut Opdyke's complex relationship with Nazi Maj. Rugmer, played by Dougray Scott, who unknowingly employs her as his maid while she hides Jews in his home. Nelisse highlighted the tension in these scenes, noting Gut Opdyke's struggle to maintain a facade of normalcy while protecting those in her care.
Despite the hardships she faced, Nelisse described Gut Opdyke as "full of light," noting her warmth and resilience in interviews. Even in her 60s, when she began speaking publicly about her experiences, Gut Opdyke's spirit remained strong, a testament to her remarkable character.
Nelisse shared that Gut Opdyke's daughter, Jeannie, praised her portrayal, saying they shared a similar essence. This connection to Gut Opdyke's spirit was deeply meaningful for Nelisse, who felt a sense of continuity with her previous role in *The Book Thief*, where she played a young girl who also defied the Nazis to protect others.
Filming *Irena's Vow* in Poland, Nelisse was struck by the proximity of modern conflicts, such as the war in Ukraine, which added a layer of poignancy to the production. Despite her decade-long career since *The Book Thief*, Nelisse still holds the film close to her
Login