A royal year for the Historic Documentary Film Society
Selwyn Klass reflects on a remarkable year filled with royal proclamations and memorable film screenings, celebrating history and legacy in Emmarentia.
For Selwyn Klass, a staunch monarchist, co-founder of the Historic Documentary Film Society, and resident of Emmarentia, the year 2024 began with royal excitement as he received an invitation from Royal Danish ambassador Elsebeth Sondergaard Krone to witness the historic proclamation of Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark as His Majesty King Frederik X.
This momentous event, held on January 14 at the Danish Embassy, marked a significant transition following the abdication of Her Majesty Queen Margrethe II, who reigned for 52 years, the first abdication by a Danish sovereign in 900 years. Reflecting on the event, Klass recalled a previous encounter with Queen Margrethe during her 1996 state visit to South Africa, where he represented SABC TV.
“During that audience, Her Majesty praised the Crown Prince’s conscientious approach to his royal duties, suggesting a promising future for the monarchy,” remarked Klaas. April brought another royal occasion for Klass, as he met HRH Prince Georg Friedrich of Russia, the great-great-grandson of the last Kaiser Wilhelm II.
The year was also marked by poignant reminders of history, particularly the legacy of Anne Frank. To honour the 80th anniversary of her last diary entry, The Historic Documentary Film Society hosted a screening of Anne Frank: Parallel Lives, narrated by Dame Helen Mirren. The documentary featured reflections from five holocaust survivors who were the same age as Anne when they were deported.
He mentioned that among the attendees was Dutch holocaust survivor Irene Fainman, who reminded the audience: “There are fewer of us left.”
Also read: The Historic Documentary Film Society tributes Dame Maggie Smith
Additionally, The Historic Documentary Film Society celebrated the 85th anniversary of Gone with the Wind with a special screening, highlighting the film’s monumental place in cinematic history. Klass shared his personal connection to the film, stating: “I have a treasured 1938 edition, given to my late mom for her 21st birthday. I’m pleased we could honour the film’s legacy.”
The Society also paid tribute to Dame Maggie Smith by screening The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie, celebrating her irreplaceable contributions to stage and screen. Klass remarked: “Like her pupils in the film, Dame Maggie was indeed esteemed by her profession as: ‘The crème de la crème’.”
As the year draws to a close, Klass and The Historic Documentary Film Society extend warm wishes to their loyal attendees for a season of renewal and joy. They look forward to welcoming everyone back for more special movie mornings in the upcoming year, celebrating the enduring power of film and the stories that shape our history.
Follow us on our Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok pages. Join our WhatsApp group for any story ideas you may have.
Related article: Settle the wind with the Historic documentary Film Society
