In August 2025, the world will have the opportunity to delve into a lesser-known chapter of history with the international premiere of the docudrama “Dachau – Hell,” produced by CINEMATER Producciones in collaboration with Schoenstatt International. This high-quality, 60-minute documentary combines dramatized scenes, insightful testimonies, and an original soundtrack that promises to move and transform viewers.

The story focuses on the experiences of Father Joseph Kentenich, founder of the Catholic Schoenstatt Movement, who was arrested by the Nazi regime and sent to the Dachau concentration camp in 1942. There, along with other Catholic priests, he lived in extremely inhumane conditions, but he also found inner freedom that no oppressor could take away from him:  the freedom of faith in Divine Providence.

Narrated by Fathers Ángel Strada and Eduardo Aguirre, who led Father Kentenich’s canonization cause, the docudrama offers a unique and intimate look at the experiences that marked the life of Schoenstatt’s founder. It also includes the moving participation of Father Pedro Kuhlcke, who performs Marian songs in German, recreating the spiritual atmosphere that surrounded the priests amidst the horror.

An Alliance that bore fruit in the darkness

The docudrama also highlights how the Covenant of Love, established in Schoenstatt in 1914, flourished even in the heart of hell. Nearly  120 priests renewed their spiritual commitment within Dachau, transforming this place of death into a space of hope, redemption, and inner renewal.

“ Although we were physically imprisoned, inner freedom became a treasure that no one could take away from us, ” says a quote from Father Kentenich included in the documentary, which reflects the central message of this production:  faith can transform suffering into grace.

A message for today

“Dachau – Hell” is not only a look back at the past, but also an invitation to reflect on current challenges. In the midst of a world filled with uncertainty, collectivism, and the neglect of values, this documentary reminds us that Christian dignity and hope are possible even in the most extreme circumstances.

The worldwide release is scheduled for August 22, 2025, the Feast of Saint Mary the Queen, with a subtitled version available for English-speaking countries.

How to access the documentary?

The documentary will be available free of charge upon request by emailing [email protected]. The larger international Schoenstatt family is also invited to join this initiative, taking advantage of the opportunity to raise funds for local movements or contribute to the “We Are All Schoenstatt” project.

Get ready for a profound encounter with history, faith, and hope!

Join the movement and discover how love and inner freedom can shine through even on the darkest days.

🎬  Coming soon in August 2025: “Dachau – Hell”

A production of CINEMATER and Schoenstatt International.

More information here.

🔗 Link to the project “We Are All Schoenstatt”.