Just finished this doc. Wow. It's easily one of the most interesting documentaries I've seen in quite a while.
It's very rare, but from time to time I will run into a film that I've never heard of before and just decide to give it a try and it ends up being great. This was one of those times.
I agree. (Spoiler alert)
This was fascinating from start to finish. I know we viewers have 20/20 hindsight but I still am surprised that no one questioned her story or did some background vetting. The doc seem to conclude that they were all too seduced by greed. The Belgian Holocaust survivor who discovered Misha’s true identity emerges as the most interesting and memorable person in this story.
Perhaps the old adage applies here: Never let the truth get in the way of a good story. You do have to wonder if, in their minds, everyone was questioning this. Or perhaps many really did believe it and figured that if it was false someone else would've discovered that already.
Another factor to consider too is that many people will be reluctant to cast doubt on the story of someone who is supposed to be a victim of a great tragedy, and especially if the person is a Holocaust victim. I think this point was even brought up in the film. After all, what if you're wrong? You will be victimizing the person all over again.
I agree about the Holocaust survivor. I was also very impressed by her research skills. Her ability to doggedly locate the proper records and patiently dig through them until she found the needle in the haystack was inspiring.
Overall it was a very interesting doc. I'm glad that the lady who originally published her book was vindicated.