Warwick Davis & the Seven Dwarfs of Auschwitz is a poignant documentary that delves into the extraordinary survival story of the Ovitz family—a troupe of Jewish dwarf entertainers who endured the horrors of Auschwitz during World War II. Presented by actor Warwick Davis, the film offers a personal and reflective journey into this remarkable chapter of Holocaust history.

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The Ovitz Family: The Lilliput Troupe

Originating from Maramureș County, Romania, the Ovitz family was led by Shimson Eizik Ovitz, a dwarf entertainer and itinerant rabbi. He fathered ten children, seven of whom were dwarfs due to pseudoachondroplasia. Together, they formed the "Lilliput Troupe," performing across Eastern Europe in the 1930s and 1940s. Their multilingual performances in Yiddish, Hungarian, Romanian, Russian, and German captivated audiences, making them one of the most renowned ensembles of their time.

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Captivity and Survival in Auschwitz

In May 1944, the entire Ovitz family, along with several others claiming kinship, were deported to Auschwitz. Their unique physical characteristics caught the attention of Dr. Josef Mengele, the infamous Nazi physician known for his cruel experiments. Mengele subjected the family to a series of inhumane tests, aiming to understand hereditary traits. Despite the torment, the Ovitz family survived their 7-month imprisonment, making them the largest family to enter and survive Auschwitz intact.

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Warwick Davis's Personal Connection

Warwick Davis, known for his roles in "Star Wars" and "Harry Potter," brings a unique perspective to the documentary. As a person with dwarfism, Davis embarks on a journey to understand the Ovitz family's experiences, drawing parallels with his own life. His exploration adds depth to the narrative, highlighting themes of resilience, identity, and the human spirit's endurance.

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Viewing the Documentary

"Warwick Davis & the Seven Dwarfs of Auschwitz" is available for viewing on various platforms:

• PBS: The documentary has been featured on PBS, providing educational insights into this unique Holocaust story. PBS

• Amazon Prime Video: Viewers can stream the documentary on Amazon Prime Video. Amazon

• Apple TV: The film is also accessible on Apple TV for those interested in this compelling narrative. Apple TV

 

For a more in-depth understanding, you can watch a related feature on YouTube:

Warwick Davis & the Seven Dwarfs of Auschwitz

 

This documentary stands as a testament to the resilience of the Ovitz family and serves as a powerful reminder of the atrocities faced by countless individuals during the Holocaust.

 

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