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Documentary

Back to Berlin (2018): Cast, Ratings & Box Office

Back to Berlin (2018) movie poster

Back to Berlin is a 2018 documentary directed by Catherine Lurie, starring Danny Kushmaro. It runs 1 hour 15 minutes and earned $6,485 worldwide. Its Echo Score is 89/100.

worldwide gross
$6.5K
Echo Score
89
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Back to Berlin (2018) movie poster
Released
Runtime
1h 15m (75 min)
Director
Catherine Lurie
Genre
Documentary
Original language
English
Studio
Cat-Mac
After the credits
No No extra scene
The story

What Is Back to Berlin About?

The premise of Back to Berlin without spoilers.

This unique film combines the biker genre with a poignant Holocaust documentary. Eleven motorcyclists embark on a mission to carry the Maccabiah torch from Israel to Berlin, the site of the 1936 Olympics, for the first Jewish Olympic Games held in Germany. Along the route, they retrace the journeys of the original Maccabiah riders from the 1930s and explore the experiences of how they and their families endured the Holocaust.

Back to Berlin Themes & Keywords

· 10 tags
  • motorbike journey
  • historical re enactment
  • jewish olympics
  • maccabiah games
  • holocaust
  • maccabiah
  • jews
  • judaism
  • nazi germany
  • jewish culture
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Cast & crew

Back to Berlin Cast

Danny Kushmaro stars in Back to Berlin. Directed by Catherine Lurie.

Ratings

Back to Berlin Reviews & Ratings

Our Echo Score gives it 89/100, strongest in character & emotion (92) and weakest in sensory experience (85).

89 /100

Back to Berlin Echo Score Breakdown

Back to Berlin delivers a compelling documentary experience that intertwines personal narratives with a pivotal historical moment. Reviewers consistently highlight its emotional depth, thoughtful storytelling, and effective use of archival material to illuminate the 1936 Maccabiah Games and the Holocaust legacy. The film’s strong craftsmanship and resonant themes create a lasting impression, positioning it as a noteworthy contribution to historical documentary cinema.

Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.

  • Art & Craft 90

    In terms of art and craft, the documentary is described as well‑executed and beautifully made, with careful editing that balances past footage and present journeys. Critics note an understated visual palette that supports the historic setting without overwhelming the narrative. The overall production design and direction are praised for cohesively presenting complex material, resulting in a polished cinematic presentation.

  • Character & Emotion 92

    When it comes to character and emotion, the film succeeds in delivering nuanced, heartfelt accounts from survivors and their families. Reviewers emphasize the depth of personal storytelling, noting the emotional resonance of individual biker journeys and intergenerational reflections. The performances of interview subjects are portrayed as authentic, fostering a strong empathetic connection with the audience.

  • Story & Flow 89

    Regarding story and flow, the documentary is praised for its original angle on a lesser‑known episode of history and a measured pacing that maintains engagement. Critics cite a clear narrative arc that interweaves archival context with contemporary travel, creating a coherent and thought‑provoking progression. While dense with information, the structure remains accessible and compelling.

  • Sensory Experience 85

    In the sensory experience, reviewers comment on the film’s effective soundscape and visual style, describing it as beautiful and immersive. The use of period music and sound design enhances the historical atmosphere, while the cinematography captures both archival and modern footage with clarity. Although specific technical details are few, the overall sensory impression supports the documentary’s emotive aims.

  • Rewatch Factor 88

    The rewatch factor is highlighted as strong, with many reviewers calling the film a must‑see and predicting lasting relevance. Its educational value, emotional impact, and unique perspective encourage repeat viewings and discussion. Audience members anticipate the documentary will remain a reference point for understanding the era, suggesting strong enduring appeal.

Box office

Back to Berlin Box Office

Back to Berlin grossed $6,485 worldwide.

2018 box office

Worldwide gross

$6.5K

International
$6.5K
Details

Back to Berlin Also Known As

2 alternative titles: “Обратно в Берлин” and “重返柏林”.

Also known as
  • Обратно в Берлин
  • 重返柏林

Seen Back to Berlin?

FAQ

Back to Berlin FAQ: Cast, Box Office & Runtime

Runtime, release date, director, cast, box office and post-credit scenes of Back to Berlin, each answered in a sentence.

How long is Back to Berlin?

Back to Berlin runs 1 hour 15 minutes (75 minutes).

When was Back to Berlin released?

Back to Berlin was released on May 5, 2018.

Who directed Back to Berlin?

Back to Berlin was directed by Catherine Lurie.

Who is in the cast of Back to Berlin?

Back to Berlin stars Danny Kushmaro.

How much did Back to Berlin make at the box office?

Back to Berlin grossed $6,485 worldwide.

Does Back to Berlin have a post-credit scene?

No. Back to Berlin has no extra scene during or after the credits.

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