What does it take to shake the world? For Solomon Weiner and Michał Podchlebnik, it meant risking everything to escape the horrors of Chełmno, the first Nazi extermination camp, and bear witness to the atrocities of the Holocaust. The World Will Tremble, a new film by Israeli-American director Lior Geller, brings their incredible story to life in a way that feels both urgent and deeply human. With its official trailer now released, the film promises to be a powerful addition to Holocaust cinema—but can it rise above the weight of its subject matter to deliver something truly unforgettable?
The film, which premiered at the 2025 Miami Jewish Film Festival, follows Weiner (Oliver Jackson-Cohen) and Podchlebnik (Jeremy Neumark Jones) as they orchestrate a daring escape from Chełmno in January 1942. Of the 320,000 Jews sent to the camp, only four survived—two of whom were Weiner and Podchlebnik. Their mission? To expose the truth about the systematic genocide being carried out by the Nazis.
Geller, known for his emotionally charged documentaries like The Heart of Jenin, brings a documentary-like authenticity to the narrative. The trailer teases a tense, atmospheric thriller, with haunting visuals of the camp and a chilling score that underscores the gravity of the story. One scene, in particular, shows the prisoners racing through the woods on a stolen motorcycle—a moment that feels both thrilling and deeply symbolic of their fight for freedom.
The cast, including standout performances by Jackson-Cohen and Jones, seems poised to deliver the emotional depth this story demands. Supporting actors like David Kross and Anton Lesser add further gravitas, ensuring that the film doesn't shy away from the moral complexities of its subject matter.
But what sets The World Will Tremble apart from other Holocaust films? For one, it focuses on a lesser-known chapter of history, shedding light on the bravery of those who risked everything to tell the world what was happening. It's not just a story of survival—it's a story of defiance, of refusing to let evil go unchallenged.
The World Will Tremble is more than just a movie; it's a reminder of the power of storytelling to confront the darkest chapters of human history. Geller's direction, combined with a stellar cast and a gripping narrative, makes this a film that demands to be seen. Yet, it also raises questions: How do we ensure that such stories are told with the respect and nuance they deserve? And in a world still grappling with injustice, what does it mean to truly “tremble” in the face of truth?
As the film prepares for its release on March 14, 2025, in select theaters and on VOD, one thing is clear: The World Will Tremble has the potential to leave a lasting impact. But will it resonate with audiences in the way it hopes? Only time will tell.
“Do you think films like The World Will Tremble are essential for keeping the memory of the Holocaust alive, or do they risk oversaturating an already sensitive topic? Share your thoughts below.”
