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In the midst of war, within the bleak confines of a prisoner-of-war camp deep in the heart of Germany in 1945, an inspirational seed was planted. As the American tanks rolled over the devastated landscape, a sound arose from the forbidding prison "schloss" - four movements of the great Brahms Ein deutsches Requiem. The message of hope and elevation over material deprivation that great music can bring is the message of this film. In this way, Guy Nicolson's legacy will be preserved for all posterity.
When John (Nicolson) first approached me with the history of his Father I was instantly attracted to the notion of a man finally realising his dream against all the odds - to turn a terrible, difficult situation into something sublime.
Hearing the Brahms Ein deutsches Requiem, I couldn't in any way imagine how anyone would go about creating such a complex, dignified, beautiful ound from silence. How voices can become so unique and inspirational - the music speaks volumes. And Guy's circumstance totally counterpoints the beauty of the Requiem - to survive a P.O.W camp, with all its rigours, dangers and difficulties.
This is a vital story that we should remember - but also take to heart in our everyday life. No matter how awful our present might be, never lose sight of our dreams - and fight to make them happen.
Peter Devonald, Screenwriter.
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