Across Frontiers

On the 8th of September 1943, thousands of Allied POWs fled into the Italian countryside following Italy's surrender, desperately evading German forces in search of freedom. The kindness of Italian farmers (Contadini) who risked everything to shelter and protect these men forms the heart of this powerful film.

With personal connections to this poignant story, as my own grandfather was a POW helped by kind souls during WWII, I was moved by the story's beauty and integrity. Zak Jarvis and his talented crew have created something truly remarkable. Despite limited resources, their storytelling shines brightly, capturing not only the courage of escape but the compassion of the Italian people who risked their lives to help.

The acting is nothing short of superb. Sam Mancuso's portrayal of Salvatore, the Italian father, is especially heartfelt and authentic. Every scene is a testament to the dedication of this cast and crew, who skillfully bring the era to life through meticulous attention to set design, costuming, and cinematography. The locations are perfectly chosen, and the atmosphere feels genuine and immersive, almost as if stepping back in time.

This film is a must-watch, especially for young and low-budget filmmakers. It beautifully demonstrates that passion, dedication, and creativity can achieve remarkable results on a small budget. It's inspiring to see what a committed team can produce-this film looks and feels like a million-dollar production. We need more filmmakers like Jarvis who are unafraid to tell these essential stories of humanity and hope.