Of Animals and Men Poster

Of Animals and Men 2019

★ 7.86 votes70 min📅 2019-09-06

Directed by Łukasz Czajka, *Of Animals and Men (2019)* is a poignant documentary that blends history, war, and survival against all odds.

Director: Łukasz Czajka

Cast

Antonina Żabińska
Self
Jan Żabiński
Self
Maria Pakulnis
Maria Pakulnis
Antonina Żabińska - Narrator (voice)
Wojciech Chorąży
Narrator (voice)
Wojciech Machnicki
Wojciech Machnicki
Narrator (voice)
Krzysztof Szczerbiński
Narrator (voice)
Adam Banaszek
Maciej Hubert
Damian Chojecki
Krzysztof Chrzanowski

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Of Animals and Men (2019) about?

*Of Animals and Men (2019)* tells the true story of the Warsaw Zoo during World War II, where hundreds of Jews found refuge under the noses of the Nazis. The film follows the Żabiński family's efforts to protect both endangered animals and desperate humans, blending survival, history, and unexpected solidarity.

Who directed Of Animals and Men?

Łukasz Czajka directed *Of Animals and Men*, crafting a documentary that intertwines history with emotional depth.

Who stars in Of Animals and Men?

The documentary features Antonina Żabińska and Jan Żabiński as central figures, alongside Maria Pakulnis, Wojciech Chorąży, and Wojciech Machnicki in key supporting roles.

Is Of Animals and Men (2019) worth watching?

*Of Animals and Men* is a gripping and moving documentary that offers a fresh perspective on wartime survival. Its blend of historical significance, emotional interviews, and striking visuals makes it a compelling watch for fans of war history and documentaries alike.

How long is Of Animals and Men?

*Of Animals and Men* runs for 70 minutes, offering a concise yet impactful viewing experience.

🎥 Trailer

About Of Animals and Men (2019) — A Wartime Zoo's Hidden Legacy of Courage

Directed by Łukasz Czajka, *Of Animals and Men (2019)* is a poignant documentary that blends history, war, and survival against all odds. Set against the backdrop of the Warsaw Zoo during World War II, the film explores how animals and humans alike became unlikely survivors under Nazi occupation. Using striking reenactments, heartfelt interviews with survivors, and archival footage, the documentary recreates the surreal and tense atmosphere of those dark days. At its core, it's a story of courage, resilience, and the unexpected bonds forged between caretakers and the creatures they protected.

At the heart of this documentary is the extraordinary true story of Antonina and Jan Żabiński, whose zoo became a sanctuary for over 300 Jews fleeing persecution. With a powerful mix of personal testimony and vivid imagery, *Of Animals and Men* shines a light on an often-overlooked chapter of history, where the instinct to protect life—human and animal—stood defiant against tyranny.