The premiere evening also brought various groups together – the diplomatic ranks, aviation enthusiasts, and the local community. In particular, it galvanized the local Polish-American community in Seattle to help support and attend this unprecedented event.
The idea for creating the film and organizing the premiere with a reception at the museum, came in large part from Krzysztof Poraj-Kuczewski, the film’s co-producer. “Polish Spirit” – was a term he continually reiterated when discussing the film. He was “fascinated by the story of young people, who in the face of the turmoil of war were forced to make life and death decisions, sacrifice their youth, and with unparalleled intensity thrust themselves into the tumult of war.”” Their stories, depicted in the book “A Question of Honor,” were the likely catalyst for this film.
The film’s message – a narrative of Polish history – was underscored by the Consul General of the Republic of Poland, Mariusz M. Brymora, who was also in attendance: “The film is an incredible opportunity to promote Poland through history. I am very pleased that the premiere of this project was held in such a prestigious location, in the capital of aviation, during the 75th anniversary celebrations of the Battle of Britain.” The Consulate General in Los Angeles was a major supporter of the film concept from the very beginning, seeing the project through to its realization and formal premiere at the Museum of Flight. The Consul General underlined the importance of juxtaposing Alex Herbst’s personal story against the tapestry of twentieth century history – “the very presence of the film’s hero certainly added gravity to the event.”
“Alex is an outstanding personality and a hero who has a unique ability of connecting with the audience, almost as much as in a private conversation, said Teresa said Indelak-Davis, Honorary Consul in Seattle, “He is always eager to share his experiences, especially with the young generation. I am pleased that the Polish-American community in Seattle, along with sponsors of the film and the premiere, overwhelmingly supported the project. The film’s producers are to be applauded for their perseverance and completion of a film presenting a story that cannot be forgotten “- she added.
As noted by J.D. Wyneken, a World War II researcher who served as master of ceremonies for the evening, “The film tells the story of not only this pilot, but in a way also that of thousands of expatriates who, after the conclusion of World War II, were effectively forgotten. Captured in a time capsule of cinema, this is a depiction of an individual who through the tides of history was thrown far outside the borders of his native Poland. This is the story of both a pilot and hero, dedicated to the cause of his mission in the skies.”
The aim of director Slawomir Ciok was to find a way to present this story in enough color to elicit emotions which often lay below the surface – “I am satisfied that those who have seen the film up to this point, both in New York and Seattle, have fully grasped what the film intends to convey.”
The spokesperson for the Warsaw Chopin Airport, also present at the premiere, emphasized his mission of promoting Polish aviation – “We feel there is a responsibility to support projects which show the connections between Polish pilots and the rest of the world. This is why the airport is one of the main sponsors of the film.”
During the reception following the film premiere, a discussion ensued with Gregg Pointon, who in the film accompanies Alex in flying a Boeing 787. He indicated that “Alex Herbst is a natural storyteller who shares his story in a very matter of fact manner. Speaking to him was like speaking to any other pilot; he was a natural at the controls.”
“I am extremely happy that it was possible for the creators of this film to capture this – it has certainly stirred up some emotions, but I wanted to tell my story as it was,” stated Alex Herbst. In so doing, he also casually mentioned how he met his wife Doreen, as well as the story of one of his friends, forgotten by history. That – in a nutshell – is Alex Herbst and his story. He is a hero among a generation of Polish heroes, who out of humility prefer to speak of others rather than of themselves.
The film will first be shown in major cities across the US and subsequently wherever there is interest.
Photo © Gail Ann Wodzin/ from left: Sławomir Ciok, Mariusz Brymora, Alex Herbst, Teresa Indelak-Davis, Krzysztof Poraj-Kuczewski.