I’ve always been a student of history so most films that focus on history will be of interest to me but in particular, I wanted to see Nuremberg, not because it would be comfortable to watch but because the timing of the film with current events makes it feel necessary. Add that to a cast the likes of this one and it was impossible to miss. Nuremberg has brilliant performances, a powerful story and highlights the atrocities of the Nazis. Both historically and as a dramatic film, it is a film that needs to be watched. 

Nuremberg is a historical drama film written, co-produced and directed by James Vanderbilt. It is based on the 2013 book The Nazi and the Psychiatrist by Jack El-Hai. In the film, the Allies, led by unyielding chief prosecutor Robert H. Jackson (Michael Shannon) has the task of ensuring that the Nazi regime answers for the unveiled horrors of the Holocaust. In order to do so, US Army psychiatrist Douglas Kelley (Rami Malek) is brought in to evaluate them for their fitness to stand trial. He becomes locked in a psychological duel with former Reichsmarschall Herman Göring (Russell Crowe). If the prosecution can break Göring’s defense, then they will be able to make the rest of the Nazi regime answer for their crimes but even with the help of translator Howie Triest (Leo Woodall), Kelley finds himself stymied by Göring and it will take everything he has to break through. The film also stars John Slattery, Colin Hanks and Richard E. Grant. 

The Nuremberg trials are one of the cornerstone moments in history and so in a film about that moment, it is crucial that the film be equal to the drama of the history and this movie has done so. Nuremberg is powerful, the pacing is fast and keeps the viewer focused on the psychological battle between Kelley and Göring. But it does not leave out the details and strength of prosecutor Robert H. Jackson. As each key person is introduced, a bit more of the history and importance of the moment unfolds. I was glued to my seat from beginning to end by magnetic personalities and the weight of history.

What makes the movie so critically good is the way it takes this time in history and holds it up as a mirror to today’s current events. The Nazis were ordinary people who took hatred, racism and a need for power and turned that into a Holocaust of the Jewish people. The horrid truth is that anyone could do the same if we don’t guard against allowing that evil to take root. As is pointed out in the film, it is the rule of law and justice that wins the day in the Nuremberg trials but only because Robert H. Jackson was so dedicated to following the truth and allowing the world to see the horrors that the Nazi leaders allowed and perpetrated in the name of Nationalism and the German people. Without that dedication to truth, the story of Nuremberg would not be as powerful.

The performances are brilliant. Each individual actor executes their part with skill, even those in minor roles. The highlight of the film is Rami Malek and Russell Crowe, as the pair have a rich dynamic and both give emotional performances that will be long remembered. I would say both give the performance of their lives. Russell Crowe is stunning as Göring, infusing his performance with narcissism and excuses for his part in the Holocaust. Malek as Kelley just is breathtaking and insightful. Michael Shannon is powerful as Robert H. Jackson, playing Jackson as dedicated and intelligent. I love the dynamic between Malek and Leo Woodall as Howie Triest. Woodall is fantastic, adding emotional weight to the story. Colin Hanks is underutilized but the perfect foil for Rami Malek’s character. John Slattery plays his part to perfection.

Any criticism I would have is minor, little details that don’t detract from the larger picture. This film is so emotional and powerful that it is impossible not to be glued to the screen. The pacing is pitch perfect and the psychological battle of wits between Göring and Kelley is dynamic. If you like drama films, history or just one of the best films of the year, I would immediately go see this film. It is not to be missed. With brilliant performances from the entire cast and the insightful reflective history, it is incredible. 

Rating: 5 out of 5  notes 

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