In Vienna, They Put You in Jail: The Max Birnbach Story

Featuring somewhat self-congratulatory narration by his son Gerry, In Vienna, They Put You in Jail: The Max Birnbach Story tells the tale of a man who escaped from Vienna during the Nazi occupation, fled through Switzerland, and ultimately became a success in America thanks his gift for making pastries and the sponsorship of a Bulova heir. While Birnbach's life is interesting, director Cheryl Blaylock's film does little to hook the viewer, as her technique is limited to the usual assortment of generic archival footage, one badly-shot interview with Birnbach, and jarringly amateur recreations. The documentary's personal touch comes from Birnbach's personal letters and a filmed trip that Gerry and Max took to Ellis Island on September 9, 2001. Without belaboring the point, Gerry juxtaposes his father's story of hope and the sad hopelessness that engulfed the nation two days later, ending the story on an emotional grace note. Optional. Aud: C, P. (D. Fienberg)