In the realm of documentary filmmaking, “AGHET: The Armenian Genocide” stands as a powerful testament to the unflinching pursuit of historical truth. Crafted by acclaimed German filmmaker Eric Friedler and produced by NDR (German public television), this award-winning documentary resonates with a compelling narrative that irrefutably affirms the tragic reality of the Armenian Genocide. With the weight of undeniable evidence and the voices of 23 witnesses, including Germans, Americans, and other nationals who bore witness to the events, AGHET rises to the challenge posed by Turkish Prime Minister Erdogan: “Prove it.”
The heart of this documentary lies in its meticulous research and the incorporation of never-before-seen footage and documents, making it one of the most thoroughly examined and expertly presented accounts of the Armenian Genocide. It transcends the boundaries of mere historical retelling, delving into the ongoing campaign of denial orchestrated by the Turkish government since these harrowing events transpired during World War I.
“AGHET” made its debut on NDR in April 2010, and its impact has reverberated far beyond its initial broadcast. Friedler has assembled an impeccable cast to breathe life into the original texts of diplomatic dispatches and eyewitness accounts, interweaving them with previously unreleased footage that vividly portrays the genocide and its subsequent political aftermath. Nobel Prize laureate Gunter Grass lauded the film, and it has sparked renewed debates throughout Europe. Beyond its historical significance, “AGHET” serves as a critical contribution to global political and cultural awareness, not only for Armenians worldwide but also for the broader international community.