“Active forgetting” is a common process of coping with history in Germany. In a radical personal approach, Klaus Stanjek’s film follows the complex turns and feelings of his family when they confront the threatening knowledge of Uncle Willi’s secret.

Sounds from the Fog is a compelling account of the director’s own family history and the phenomenon of German repression of WWII memories. Stanjek delves into the personal and political life of his beloved uncle, a talented singer and accordion player, in a chronicle that is one part historical inquiry and one part fascinating detective story.

2013 | William Dieterle Film Award