Walking with the Enemy

In 1944, the dark specter of German occupation begins to engulf Budapest. This period marks the start of severe oppression for the Jewish community, creating an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty.

József, a Jewish radio repair shop owner, is faced with an agonizing choice. He resolves to send his two young employees, Elek Cohen and Ferenc Jacobson, back to their families for safety.

Elek and Ferenc, with the help of a benevolent Catholic priest, procure forged baptismal certificates. These documents become vital tools for their families' escape from impending danger.

Carl Lutz, an official at the Swiss diplomatic office, is empowered to issue 8,000 Swiss passports for Jews. He courageously expands this to include entire families, providing essential lifelines.

As Elek and Ferenc navigate their escape, they return home to discover a tragic reality. Their families have been deported, leaving them to face the grim consequences of occupation.

Hungarian leader Horthy secretly negotiates an armistice with Stalin, trying to shift the tides of power. However, the Nazis uncover this plot, leading to his son's abduction.

The fascist Arrow Cross Party, led by Ferenc Szálasi, seizes control with Nazi support. This takeover marks a dangerous escalation in the hunt for Jewish refugees.

Driven by instinct and necessity, Elek and Ferenc decide to assist Jewish families facing peril. Their efforts align with Carl Lutz's mission to safeguard Hungarian Jews.

During their mission, Elek meets Hannah, a young Jewish woman. Their lives become intertwined as they take refuge from Nazi officers seeking her capture.

In a moment of courage, Elek defends Hannah from Nazi intruders by killing them. This act of bravery solidifies his commitment to protect those in danger.

To further their efforts, Elek and Ferenc daringly exhume Nazi bodies and wear their uniforms. For months, they successfully impersonate SS officers, misleading other Nazis.

The narrative culminates with the triumphant arrival of the Russian army in Budapest, signaling the end of German occupation. This historic moment brings hope and a chance for freedom.

In a culminative moment, Elek's life hangs in balance when an SS lieutenant aims at him. A small act from his son serves as the catalyst for life-altering events.

Fast forward to 1958, Elek's son is celebrating his adopted son's wedding in New York City. This moment serves as a poignant testament to resilience and the passage of time.

The film pays tribute to Carl Lutz, whose actions saved countless lives during WWII. His legacy symbolizes the unyielding power of compassion in the face of adversity.