Focus Features' drama “The Zookeeper's Wife,” directed by Niki Caro, has been honored with the Truly Moving Picture Award by Heartland Film. Select theatrically-released titles — inspiring films that do more than entertain — receive the coveted industry designation throughout the year. Submissions are received directly from studios and producers for consideration.
“Engaging and original, ‘The Zookeeper's Wife' features a stunning performance from Jessica Chastain as real-life heroine Antonina Żabińska,” said Greg Sorvig, Heartland Film's director of film programming and marketing. “Director Niki Caro has crafted a poignant and powerful portrait, and we are proud to honor the film with the Truly Moving Picture Award.”
In 1939 Poland, Antonina Żabińska (portrayed by two-time Academy Award® nominee Jessica Chastain) and her husband, Dr. Jan Żabiński (Johan Heldenbergh, a European Film Award nominee for the Academy Award®-nominated “The Broken Circle Breakdown”), have the Warsaw Zoo flourishing under his stewardship and her care.
When their country is invaded by the Germans, Jan and Antonina are stunned and forced to report to the Reich's newly appointed chief zoologist, Lutz Heck (Golden Globe Award nominee Daniel Brühl of “Captain America: Civil War”). To fight back on their own terms, the Żabińskis covertly begin working with the Resistance and put into action plans to save lives out of what has become the Warsaw Ghetto, with Antonina putting herself and even her children at great risk.
Focus Features has collaborated with humanitarian relief agencies from around the country, such as the International Rescue Committee (IRC), HIAS, CARE; and leading Jewish organizations to produce “The Zookeeper's Wife” viewing guide, available for download at focusfeatures.
Truly Moving Picture Award winner “The Zookeeper's Wife” is now playing across the country.
SOURCE: Heartland Film