The Fencer 2017
Directed by
Klaus Härö
Made by
California Film Institute, The
Plot Summary
As World War II drew to a close, Estonia found itself mired in a complex occupation predicament. Initially neutral, the nation was overwhelmed by Nazi Germany, which conscripted most able-bodied men into its military ranks. Following the war, the Soviet Union took control, vilifying those who had served under the German banner as enemies of the state. This chaotic environment resulted in Estonia’s incorporation into the USSR, leaving its citizens in a perpetual state of uncertainty.
Amidst this turbulent backdrop, we meet Endel Nelis, a young educator navigating life in Haapsalu during the early 1950s. Fleeing from Leningrad’s secret police, Endel Nelis quickly earned respect as a teacher while also founding a sports club for his eager students, where he kindled their interest in fencing—a passion deeply rooted within him. However, his non-traditional approach did not escape the scrutiny of the school’s principal, who grew more disapproving and set in motion an investigation into Endel’s enigmatic history.
Endel’s loyal friend and mentor, Aleksei, delivered a grave warning: there were dire consequences if Endel ever returned to Leningrad. This advice merely highlighted the lurking dangers tied to his past.
As his students thrived under his mentorship, fencing transformed into a powerful vehicle for self-expression and empowerment for these young souls, many of whom had lost their families to the ravages of war. Endel emerged as a father figure, shouldering an unforeseen sense of responsibility. When the group expressed a passionate desire to compete in a national fencing tournament in Leningrad, Endel found himself facing an impossible dilemma: Should he jeopardize everything to fulfill their collective aspiration, or should he prioritize his safety and risk letting down the children who had come to depend on him?
Timeline
Nazi Occupation Begins
As World War II approached its conclusion, Estonia was overrun by Nazi Germany. This occupation resulted in the conscription of most able-bodied Estonian men into the military, altering the fabric of society dramatically.
Soviet Control Established
Following the defeat of Nazi Germany, Estonia fell under the control of the Soviet Union. The transition marked the beginning of a new regime that harshly treated those associated with the previous occupiers, branding them as enemies of the state.
Endel Nelis Introduced
In the early 1950s, we meet Endel Nelis, a young educator living in the town of Haapsalu. He is attempting to navigate a world filled with political uncertainty while striving to make a difference in the lives of his students.
Endel Fleeing Leningrad
Endel finds himself on the run from the secret police in Leningrad. This precarious situation compels him to establish his new life in Estonia, where he quickly begins to earn his students' respect as a beloved teacher.
Founding the Sports Club
Endel takes a significant step by founding a sports club at his school, specifically focusing on fencing. This encourages his students to engage in sport while simultaneously igniting their interest in an activity rich with history and discipline.
Increased Scrutiny
Endel's unorthodox teaching methods soon raise suspicions from the school principal. The principal's disapproval gradually escalates into a full-blown investigation into Endel's mysterious background.
Aleksei's Warning
Endel's confidant, Aleksei, delivers a stark warning about the consequences he would face if he returned to Leningrad. This warning serves as a reminder of the ever-present perils that loom over Endel due to his past.
Empowerment Through Fencing
As Endel cultivates a passion for fencing among his students, the sport becomes a means of self-expression and empowerment. Many of the students are coping with deep personal losses from the war, and the unity forged through fencing provides solace.
Becoming a Father Figure
Through his dedication and support, Endel emerges as a father figure to his students. He takes on an unexpected sense of responsibility, as they look to him not only for guidance in fencing but also for personal stability.
National Fencing Tournament
The students express eager enthusiasm about competing in a national fencing tournament held in Leningrad. This ambition places Endel in a moral quandary, as he weighs the safety of returning to Leningrad against his desire to help his students achieve their dreams.
Facing the Dilemma
Endel finds himself at a crossroads, torn between fulfilling his students' dreams and protecting himself from the authorities. This dilemma underscores the depth of his commitment to the young lives he has impacted and the hazards they all face.
The Aftermath
Regardless of the outcome, the events surrounding the tournament will forever change the relationship between Endel and his students. The culmination of fear, hope, and resilience encapsulates the struggle for identity in a war-torn landscape.
Characters
Endel Nelis (Lembit Ulfsak)
Endel Nelis is a young educator who embodies resilience and determination in the face of adversity. As he navigates the dangers of his past, he emerges as a pivotal figure in the lives of his students, instilling in them a passion for fencing. His internal struggle between safety and duty highlights his commitment to his students' aspirations, making him a relatable and inspiring character.
Aleksei
Aleksei serves as Endel's loyal friend and mentor, offering wisdom and guidance about the dangers of returning to Leningrad. His character adds depth to the narrative by representing the weight of history and the consequences of past alliances. Throughout the film, he stands as a counterbalance to Endel's optimism, reminding him of the stark realities they face.
Setting
Time period
Early 1950s
The movie takes place in the early 1950s, a period marked by the lingering effects of World War II and the complexities of Soviet occupation. This era was characterized by political turmoil, societal upheaval, and a struggle for identity as the Baltic states grappled with their futures amidst foreign control.
Location
Estonia, Haapsalu, Leningrad
Estonia serves as the primary setting of the film, encapsulating the struggles during and post World War II. Haapsalu, a picturesque coastal town, is where Endel Nelis builds his life and fosters a community through fencing. Leningrad, a city steeped in history, symbolizes both the threat of the past and the aspirations for a brighter future.
Themes
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Fencing
Fencing serves as a metaphor for self-expression and empowerment throughout the story. For Endel's students, it represents not only a sport, but also a means to reclaim their identities and agency after the loss and disruption caused by war. The discipline of fencing instills values of teamwork and resilience in a generation struggling to find their place.
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Occupation
The theme of occupation is central to the narrative, reflecting the turmoil and uncertainty faced by Estonians during this turbulent time. As the country endures dominance from both Nazi Germany and the Soviet Union, the impact of war on personal and collective identities takes center stage. Endel's fight to create a safe space for his students highlights the human spirit's resistance against external pressures.
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Mentorship
Endel's role as a mentor showcases the profound impact of guidance and support in shaping young lives. He becomes a father figure to his students, instilling hope and purpose amidst chaos. The theme emphasizes the importance of positive role models in fostering resilience and determination among youth dealing with the consequences of war.
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