March 26 – April 5, 2020


The gruesome murders of Nancy and Derek Haysom in 1985 were a media sensation. The Haysoms were wealthy, respected members of Virginia society, and the murder conviction of their daughter Elizabeth and her German boyfriend Jens Soering sent shockwaves through the rural community of Bedford County. Elizabeth was a product of European boarding schools, Jens the son of a diplomat. After being arrested in London, England for passing bad checks in 1986, they were both extradited to the United States and have now spent over 30 years behind bars. This beautifully crafted film reveals a mismanaged, or perhaps completely corrupted, judicial process. The Promise profiles this true crime story that was the first criminal trial held in front of TV cameras, and the first high profile, international case tried in a small town.

Co-director Karin Steinberger to be in attendance for screenings!