The Defection of Simas Kudirka

This two time primetime Emmy winning* Television movie is based on a true story of Lithuanian seaman Simas Kudirka, a demoralized man surviving under Soviet oppression during the 1970s. He is portrayed with passionate accuracy by the Academy Award Winning actor Alan Arkin**. A captivating plight of sacrifice and determination, we follow Kudirka's life from a carefree family man to a discarded prisoner charged with treason. In a death defying leap onto an American Naval ship Kudirka announces that he is seeking asylum. Arkin conveys such an overwhelming mix of emotions that were true to Kudirka's personal experiences we can't help but root for an encouraging outcome. But this was not make believe this was a genuine tragedy - the laws of the times were enforced which quickly set Kudirka back into a deep dark place emotionally and literally when he was recaptured by the Soviets. Right up to the bitter end of "The Defection Of Simas Kudirka" we do not know the fate of a man who stopped at nothing to gain his independence and live by his own rules and thoughts. But when all hope is lost it is ultimately revealed that a stunning twist of fate, completely out of Kudirka's control defines his destiny. * Outstanding Directing in a Special Program - Drama or Comedy; Outstanding Film Editing for a Special **Oscar, (2006) Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role for "Little Miss Sunshine"