What's the Name of that Movie about escaping from East Germany?

Question

Back in the early 80s, I saw a movie about 2 families who lived in East Germany. The families worked together by making a large hot air balloon and escaped in the middle of the night.

Does anyone remember the name of that movie?

Answer 1

Night Crossing (1981)

starring John Hurt, Jane Alexander, Doug McKeon, Keith McKeon, Beau Bridges, Glynnis O'Connor

Yahoo!Movies synopsis:

This story of two East German families who launch an escape to the free world by using a hot-air balloon is based on an actual incident. Tired of the Cold War rules that restricted their lives, two families built their own balloon as an escape vehicle to the West. This uplifting tale inspires with its mix of human determination and heroism in the face of oppression.

IMDb review:

This movie accurately portrays the struggle life was for the typical East German. Watched by the secret police, friends and coworkers, most easterners simply existed. The Strelzyks and the Wetzels were two families who decided they weren't going to take it anymore. Despite the extreme danger involved in escaping to the West, they feel the rewards far outweighed the risks. John Hurt and Beau Bridges, portraying the respective family heads, hit upon the idea of flying over East Germany's heavily fortified border. There are tense moments as they gather and gerryrig the necessary materials for the flight. They work their day jobs and construct the balloon at night, right under the noses of the authorities, one of whom is Strelzyk's neighbor (Klaus Loewitsch). The first attempt, involving only the Strelzyks, ends in failure when the balloon crashes just a few yards from the border. The crashed balloon is discovered by border guards, and a relentless search begins for the conspirators who are determined to try again. With sales of materials being closely monitored, Peter and Guenter still manage to procure bits and pieces of cloth with which to construct a second balloon for their nail-biting escape to freedom.

I remember seeing this film several times, and it had such an impact because I recall the appearance of the Wall and remember watching in astonishment as it was torn down decades later. Back then, it was a symbol of the Iron Curtain.

Answer 2

I saw that movie too!!!  I'd like to find it and watch it again

it's called "Night Crossing"

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0082810/

Answer 3

That was called "Night Crossing" (1981). I remember seeing that movie, it was good!

Check it out here:

http://movies.yahoo.com/movie/1800100381...

Answer 4

Schindlers List??