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Deep Dive: Syndrome K (2019)

Film Lens

Syndrome K
Syndrome K recounts the story of three Roman Catholic doctors in Italy during the Holocaust who created a fictitious disease to protect Jewish patients from Nazi persecution. This disease, called Syndrome K, was claimed to be highly contagious, allowing the doctors to hide Jews in a Vatican-affiliated hospital. Their actions were taken at great personal risk, demonstrating a significant moral stance against the oppressive regime of the time. The documentary includes interviews and historical context to provide a deeper understanding of this little-known chapter in history. It reveals the intersection of faith, medicine, and humanity during World War II, focusing on the courageous efforts of these doctors in Rome, Italy, amidst the horrors of fascism and the Holocaust.

Why Watch

  • Meet the doctors who defied Nazi persecution in Italy.
  • See how a fictitious disease saved lives during the Holocaust.
  • Find out about the moral courage of medical professionals.

Did You Know

Three doctors created a fake disease called Syndrome K during the Holocaust.
The doctors hid Jewish patients in a Vatican-affiliated hospital.
The documentary is directed by Stephen Edwards and features Ray Liotta.
Syndrome K was claimed to be highly contagious to protect patients.

Perfect For

Holocaust historyWorld War II studiesMedical ethics