Open Wed-Mon, 10 AM - 5 PM (Last Entry at 4 PM)

Virtual Reality Film Experience: Letters from Drancy

Richard & Jill Chaifetz Family Virtual Reality Gallery
Ongoing Exhibition

Created by Illinois Holocaust Museum and award-winning production company East City Films, Letters from Drancy is a poignant virtual reality experience that illuminates the power of an unbreakable bond between a mother and her daughter during the Holocaust.

Through 360 video technology alongside 3D environments, stylized animation, motion capture, and a spatial soundtrack, audiences are immersed in the memories and experiences of Marion Deichmann, who at 9 years old watched her mother disappear through the door of their tiny Paris apartment, escorted between two policemen tasked with rounding up Jews. That would be the last time Marion saw her mother, Alice, who was taken to Auschwitz and murdered. Separated from her family, it was only by the kindness and courageous actions of others that Marion survived.

Filmed on location in Paris and Normandy in France, Letters from Drancy allows audiences to accompany Marion Deichmann on her daring childhood journey across the borders of Northern Europe, her heartbreaking separation from her mother, her escape with help from the French Resistance in Paris, and her vivid memories of D-Day bombings in Normandy.

Marion’s story is full of loss and longing, but also of the persevering love that endures throughout her life. It is a profound story of courage from those who selflessly offer humanity in the face of hatred.

More About ‘The Journey Back: A VR Experience’
“BEHIND THE SCENES” INTERVIEWS WITH MARION
Marion shares her family history.
Marion shares her thoughts on her VR film.
Marion shares why she agreed to make this film.

In Memory of  
Alice Deichmann 

Lead Sponsor 
Dr. Joy & John Miller 

Directed by 
Darren Emerson 

Executive Producer 
Ashley Cowan 

Creative Director 
Darren Emerson 

Producer 
Micaela Blitz 
 
Executive Producers for Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center 
Senior Vice President of Education & Exhibitions – Kelley Szany 
Chief Curator of Collections & Exhibitions – Arielle Weininger 
Associate Director of Education – Amanda Friedeman 
Director of Education – Leah Rauch 

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