The German-language version of On Distant Shores, the iconic 1958 Azerbaijani film, has been restored and digitized in Berlin at the initiative of Azerbaijan’s Embassy in Germany. Originally dubbed by DEFA Studio and released in 1959 under the title Damals in Trieste, the restored version was screened at the Urania Science Center as part of events marking the 80th anniversary of the victory over fascism in World War II.

Speaking at the event, Azerbaijani Ambassador Nasimi Aghayev highlighted that the film reflects “the determination, selflessness and unshakable will” of the heroic partisan Mehdi Huseynzade, symbolizing Azerbaijan’s enduring spirit. He reminded that nearly 700,000 Azerbaijanis fought in the war, with over 300,000 making the ultimate sacrifice, and more than 170,000 were decorated, including 130 who were honored as Heroes of the Soviet Union.

The film restored in high resolution by a Berlin-based restoration company, was received with great interest. The event gathered ambassadors, scientists, cultural figures, journalists, and members of Azerbaijani, Turkish and other communities.

The German press, including Berliner Zeitung, and TV channels like TV Berlin and Stimme der Hauptstadt, provided extensive coverage of the screening and Azerbaijan’s contributions to the wartime victory.

The restored version of the film can be viewed via this link.

Elvin Movsum

AZERTAC special correspondent

Berlin