Key Highlights
- Russell Crowe stars as Hermann Göring in “Nuremberg,” a film that dramatizes the trial of Nazi commander Göring.
- The film, directed by James Vanderbilt and starring Rami Malek as Douglas Kelley, attempts to explore the psychological aspects of evil through its characters.
- While praised for its pacing and performances, “Nuremberg” is criticized for not fully delving into the harsh realities of Nazi atrocities.
The Pacing and Performances in “Nuremberg”
“Nuremberg,” released on 14 November 2025, is a film that brings to life the trial of Nazi commander Hermann Göring. The movie is directed by James Vanderbilt, known for his work on both serious dramas and comedic films like “The Zodiac” (2007) and “Murder Mystery” (2019). The film stars Russell Crowe as Göring and Rami Malek as Douglas Kelley, a psychiatrist tasked with ensuring the imprisoned Nazi leaders do not commit suicide before their trial.
The pacing of the film is described as energetic and engaging, reminiscent of tracking down “crafty mobsters” rather than the architects of genocide.
The introduction of high-ranking party members uses a mix of newspaper headlines, technicolor recreations, and salacious details to create an impactful narrative. For instance, it is mentioned that Robert Ley was captured in his pajamas.
Psychological Exploration vs. Realism
The film’s attempt to explore the psychological aspects of evil through Kelley’s character faces criticism for its Hollywood sheen. While the performances by Crowe and Malek are praised, the overall narrative struggles to fully engage with the gravity of Nazi atrocities. The Allies’ victory is celebrated, but the horrors of concentration camps remain relatively unexplored.
James Vanderbilt’s direction balances between courtroom drama and psychological insight, drawing from Jack El-Hai’s non-fiction book “The Nazi and the Psychiatrist.” However, this approach fails to fully confront the darkest chapters of history. The film’s attempt to dissect evil is undermined by its reliance on a more superficial narrative structure.
Conclusion
A Mixed Reception
“Nuremberg” faces criticism for not providing a deeper exploration of Nazi atrocities despite its promising premise and strong performances. While the film attempts to offer psychological insights into the minds of its characters, it ultimately falls short in fully engaging with the gravity of its subject matter.
The closing titles reveal that Kelley was significantly affected by his experiences at the trials, questioning the effectiveness of legal justice in breaking cycles of violence. Despite this introspection, “Nuremberg” is left to conclude with a more traditional Hollywood narrative arc, failing to fully reckon with the ugliest truths of history.
In conclusion, while “Nuremberg” offers compelling performances and an engaging pace, it ultimately fails to live up to its potential in fully exploring the depths of Nazi evil. The film serves as a reminder that historical dramas must balance entertainment value with the solemn duty of remembering the past accurately and honestly.
