Jakob the Liar (1999) - Movie Synopsis & Plot

In Nazi-occupied Poland during World War II, Jakob (Robin Williams), the owner of a long-closed caf‚ in the Jewish ghetto, accidentally overhears a forbidden radio news bulletin signaling Soviet military successes against the Germans. The next day, Jakob whispers his secret good news to two despondent friends. As the news spreads, so does a rumor-Jakob must have a radio, an offense punishable by death. Despite the danger, Jakob continues to relay fictitious news bulletins about Allied advances against the Nazis. These lies keep hope and humor alive among the inhabitants of the ghetto-the suicide rate drops, spirits are lifted and optimism is reborn. The Germans learn of the mythical radio, however, and begin a search for the resistance hero who dares operate it...

Based on the Jurek Becker book, JAKOB THE LIAR is a story about the astonishing things that happen when despair turns to hope among the residents of this small village. It's also about the poignant humor that enables these ghetto dwellers to survive from one day to the next.

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