Mount Liptak
Based on a true World War II Navy story about a young boy who lied about his age in order to enlist so he could provide for his family after his father was murdered. True life tends to be filled with crazy stories that happen to seemingly regular folks. “Mount Liptak: A little Lie in a big War” is a patriotic coming of age story about a boy facing the heavy burden of having to take care of his family financially.
With a strong opening showing navy recruitment ads, the film draws you into the magnitude of what Lester did by enlisting. With strong characters and a strong storyline, the short film makes an impact about the reality of war in a young man’s life.
He works at a factory “building the war over here” yet he wants to be part of the war happening “over there.” The war is hitting home for him in a financial way. His father is part of a worker strike facing awful consequences if he stays with the strike and even worse if he crosses the line and returns to work.
Lester wants to be a navy pilot and he doesn’t even know if he can meet the height requirements. He will do anything to learn how to be a pilot and join the navy. He feels the heavy burden of his family’s financial situation. He first had to convince his mother that it was a good idea and then has to convince the enlistment officer that he is old enough and strong enough.
The film chronicles the many sacrifices and challenges Lester endured.
“Mount Liptak” is a star-filled cast with Chase Pollock from “Santa Stole Our Dog” and “The Colonel,” Simon Provan from “The Open Door,” Gwendolyn GaBree from “Chasing Gold,” and David Sapiro from the TV Series “Leaving Eden.”
Ryan Allsop, director of “Mount Liptak,” is Lester Liptak’s nephew. He grew up Mormon but has since left the faith. He likes to showcase unique family stories and characters in a wide variety of genres from dramas to comedies. “Mount Liptak” truly is a unique story that will give you raw and really relatable moments. By the end of the film you feel connected to Lester and have learned to empathize with his story.
Lester’s story is but a thread in the tapestry of stories about children who enlisted in armed services. Ryan Allsop’s goal is to gather even more stories, using “Mount Liptak” as a catalyst for others to share the stories of family members who served underage. You can find more information on the website www.mountliptak.com.
