Dir: Annabel Jankel , UK, 2025, 108 mins
Cast: Lucas Lynggaard Tønnesen, Clara Rugaard, Til Schweiger
Review by Matthew Morlai Kamara
Desperate Journey follows a young Jewish man’s fight for survival during the Second World War. Told through a dual story-line that bookends his life, the film unflinchingly explores the fears faced by both Jewish and non-Jewish people of the era, while centering on Freddie’s core principle: choosing kindness over hatred and fear.
Wow, what an experience. Parts of this film are hard to watch; the director doesn’t shy away from showing some disturbing scenes. Freddie’s true life account left me absolutely heartbroken. I couldn’t look away during certain moments of the film, but was focused on every single second of the movie, drawn in by the devastating reality of what he must have endured. It’s like you’ve been teleported into the film, living every struggle and heart-thumping moment alongside him.
The dual timeline sets the pace beautifully. I was itching to get to the end to see how it all came together. The whole cast deliver incredible performances, especially Tønnesen, who brings such raw authenticity to Freddie’s story. Every technical element is on point: costume and makeup design that feels painfully real; sound design that amplifies every ounce of tension; and cinematography that captures both the horror and fleeting moments of hope with stunning clarity.
It’s a great shame this film is only in selected UK cinemas, as it truly deserves to be seen widely. We’ve had countless films about the Jewish community’s suffering in WWII, but this one is different. It’s a vital reminder for our generation of the injustice of the past and that killing over religion, race or origin is a waste of life and a loss of humanity.
A powerful, educational and deeply moving tribute to Freddie Knoller’s life.
