Walk To Westerbork
Using immersive filmmaking technology, East City Films has partnered with the Illinois Holocaust Museum to bring untold stories from history to life. Walk to Westerbork is more than a virtual reality film—it’s a deeply personal connection to a Holocaust survivor’s experiences.
At the heart of the story is Rodi Glass. Her life in Amsterdam in 1936, full of family and dreams, was forever changed by the onset of World War II. From the sound of German soldiers marching through the city to the horrors of the concentration camps, Rodi’s story is one of resilience and survival. Her testimony forms the foundation of Walk to Westerbork, filling it with emotion and humanity.
Our director, Mary Matheson, an expert in VR storytelling with projects for Google Daydream and YouTube VR, brought Rodi’s memories to life in a powerful way. Under her direction, Walk to Westerbork became an immersive journey that lets viewers step into Rodi’s world.
Collaboration was key to this project. With All Seeing Eye leading VR interactive design and Target 3D providing motion capture expertise, Walk to Westerbork offers more than just a story—it’s an experience. The technical elements blend seamlessly with the narrative, allowing audiences to feel every moment and connect deeply with Rodi’s journey.
This project was made possible by a talented team. Producer Micaela Blitz, along with our partners All Seeing Eye, Conan Roberts, 1618 Digital, and Transmission TX, brought authenticity and depth to every detail. Filmed in locations like Kamp Westerbork and the Holocaust Memorial in Amsterdam, the film captures the gravity and emotion of its historical backdrop.
"A remarkable virtual reality experience that shares an intensely personal account of a young girl’s survival during the Holocaust."
- Voices Of VR
Rodi’s family, based in Chicago, also played a crucial role. Their involvement brought authenticity to the film, especially in its poignant final scenes, which trace Rodi’s journey from Amsterdam to her family in Chicago.
For those seeking a blend of history, emotion, and innovative storytelling, Walk to Westerbork is now available at the Illinois Holocaust Museum in Skokie. This isn’t just a VR experience—it’s a tribute to history, resilience, and the strength of the human spirit.
Behind The Scenes
