Narrated by Corin Redgrave and Vanessa Redgrave, “Escape to Life: The Erika and Klaus Mann Story” is the result of a remarkable pairing between fiction and non-fiction filmmakers Wieland Speck and Andrea Weiss. It depicts another remarkable relationship, between Erika and Klaus Mann, the brilliant eldest children of German author Thomas Mann.
The Manns claimed to be identical twins, despite being born more than a year apart and different genders. Living under the shadow of Hitler’s rise, Erika and Klaus were intellectuals, homosexuals, and pacifists who lived as exiles in their country. Erika was an actress whose satirical revues were censored throughout Europe. Klaus was a self-doubting writer whose banned novel, Mephisto, didn’t become a bestseller until long after his suicide.
Filled with contradictions and inspiration, their fascinating lives stand as a testament to the power of the individual and art against the forces of history and the worst of humanity. The filmmaking team of Weiss and Speck weave together a seamless blend of dramatic scenes, compelling interviews (including Mann’s youngest daughter), and amazing archival footage.
