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The Optimist

Play trailer Poster for The Optimist In Theaters Mar 11 1h 42m History Drama Play Trailer Watchlist
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Tomatometer 3 Reviews Popcornmeter 0 Verified Ratings
Based on a true story, THE OPTIMIST follows Holocaust survivor Herbert Heller and the unlikely friendship that transforms two lives. At 15, Herbert escaped the Auschwitz-Birkenau death march, carrying the weight of silence for six decades. When he finally breaks that silence, he forms a life-saving bond with Abby, a troubled teenager confronting her own pain. Together, they discover hope, healing, and the transformative power of being truly seen.
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Cast & Crew

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Finn Taylor

Director

Stephen Lang

Actor

Elsie Fisher

Actor

Luke David Blumm

Actor

Leah Pipes

Actor

Ben Geurens

Actor

Critics Reviews

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Jason Delgado Film Threat 10/16/2023
8/10
There’s a lot of heavy stuff to deal with here, but the movie still provides a majestic and hopeful feeling by the end. Go to Full Review Jackie K. Cooper jackiekcooper.com 10/15/2023
7/10
This true story about the holocaust inspires and entertains. Plus it is good to see Elsie Fisher back on screen. Go to Full Review Stephen Saito Moveable Fest 10/11/2023
The film not only extends the reach of [its subject's] story beyond his own ability to tell it, but clearly honors his belief that how to connect is as important as the connection itself. Go to Full Review Read all reviews
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The Optimist

The Optimist (2026) View more photos

Movie Info

Synopsis Based on a true story, THE OPTIMIST follows Holocaust survivor Herbert Heller and the unlikely friendship that transforms two lives. At 15, Herbert escaped the Auschwitz-Birkenau death march, carrying the weight of silence for six decades. When he finally breaks that silence, he forms a life-saving bond with Abby, a troubled teenager confronting her own pain. Together, they discover hope, healing, and the transformative power of being truly seen.
Director
Finn Taylor
Producer
Jeanine Thomas, George Rush
Screenwriter
Finn Taylor
Distributor
Trafalgar Releasing
Genre
History, Drama
Release Date (Theaters)
Mar 11, 2026, Limited
Runtime
1h 42m