In a groundbreaking move, Oscar-winning filmmaker Richard Trank has officially stepped away from his long-held position at the Simon Wiesenthal Center, where he has passionately served for many years. He was at the helm of Moriah Films, the center's in-house film division, and played a pivotal role in developing media for the Museum of Tolerance, located in both Los Angeles and Jerusalem. But here’s where it gets interesting: he’s now diving into exciting new horizons by founding his own production company, Sea Point Films and Media.
This newly established company is set to focus on producing engaging nonfiction content while also exploring narrative storytelling. Trank has ambitious plans already, as he is currently in the process of creating three documentaries. Among them are two that are already underway, titled Always 28 and The Road Home, the latter being supported by the Anti-Defamation League. Additionally, there's another project in its formative stages called Toto & Coco, which is being developed in tandem as a narrative series.
Always 28 uncovers a poignant and often overshadowed chapter in history about Nathan B. Baskind, a Jewish-American soldier who faced grave adversities on D-Day. After being injured, he was captured by Nazi forces and tragically died while in their custody. This film will follow a dedicated nonprofit organization on their quest to locate Baskind’s remains and honorably return him home, weaving a tale that blends history with heartfelt advocacy.
The Road Home, on the other hand, tells the compelling story of the resilience shown by Israelis following the traumatic events of October 7, 2023—the darkest day for the Jewish community since the Holocaust. This documentary promises to feature intimate interviews with survivors, former hostages, and their loved ones, alongside insights from experts who have aided in the healing process, vividly illustrating the human spirit's ability to recover from unimaginable loss.
Additionally, Toto & Coco is based on the bestselling book released in 2020 that tells the tale of Toto Koopman—an intriguing figure who was not only a biracial and queer Vogue model but also a daring spy for the British during World War II. She had personal connections to Coco Chanel, a well-known fashion icon with controversial ties to the Nazi regime, which adds layers of complexity and intrigue to her narrative.
Richard Trank, hailing from Los Angeles and an alumnus of UC-Berkeley with further studies at USC, is perhaps best known for his award-winning documentary The Long Way Home, created in 1997. This film focuses on the harrowing experiences of Jewish refugees in the aftermath of the Holocaust, earning him an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. His impressive filmography includes titles such as Echoes That Remain (1991), In Search of Peace (2001), Winston Churchill: Walking With Destiny (2011), and Never Stop Dreaming: The Life and Legacy of Shimon Peres (2018).
Throughout his illustrious career, Trank has had the honor of interviewing a myriad of notable figures, including Israeli prime ministers like Shimon Peres and Benjamin Netanyahu, as well as U.S. presidents such as Barack Obama and Ronald Reagan. He has also engaged with cultural icons like Barbra Streisand and Jane Fonda, capturing stories and reflections that contribute to the rich tapestry of cultural and historical discourse.
What do you think about Trank's transition from the Simon Wiesenthal Center to starting his own company? Do you believe this change will influence the narratives he tells in his new ventures? Share your opinions and thoughts in the comments below!
