REVIEW: “Nuremberg” (2025)

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James Vanderbilt’s film, “Nuremberg,” powerfully portrays the important events of the historic Nuremberg Trials. These trials, conducted by the Allied forces after Hitler’s death and the collapse of Nazi Germany, aimed to bring Nazi leaders to justice. Beyond simply convicting them, the trials sought to reveal the full extent of the Nazis’ horrific crimes and prevent Germany from repeating its past mistakes after World War I.

Hermann Göring, Hitler’s second-in-command, was the most important Nazi official tried at Nuremberg. A brilliant but extremely self-centered and devoted follower, Göring rose from Supreme Commander of the Air Force to become one of Hitler’s closest and most relied-upon advisors. Throughout the Nuremberg trials, his confidence and shrewdness were evident, though ultimately they proved to be his downfall.

Vanderbilt’s “Nuremberg” takes its inspiration from Jack El-Hai’s 2013 book, “The Nazi and the Psychiatrist,” but concentrates on the preparation for the trial rather than the trial itself. This is a smart choice, as it provides a better understanding of how the prosecutors developed their arguments. The series also offers a fascinating look into the mind of Hermann Göring, thanks to Russell Crowe’s powerful performance, which is worthy of an Oscar nomination.

Beginning in 1945 and 1946, the story of “Nuremberg” opens with the surrender of Hermann Göring to American forces in Austria. He, along with other captured Nazi leaders, is held in a secret prison at the Grand Hotel Mondorf in Luxembourg. At the same time, the Allied powers are debating how best to bring these war criminals to justice. Eventually, they agree on an international trial, to be held in the rebuilt Palace of Justice in Nuremberg, Germany.

Associate Justice Robert H. Jackson (Michael Shannon), a determined but somewhat hesitant man, is chosen to lead the American prosecution at the Nuremberg trials. He teams up with the experienced and direct British prosecutor David Maxwell Fyfe (Richard E. Grant). While dealing with practical difficulties and breaking new legal ground, they request the help of U.S. Army psychiatrist Douglas Kelley (Rami Malek). Kelley is given the difficult job of assessing Göring and the other Nazi defendants before their trial is seen by the world.

The film largely focuses on the many conversations between Kelley and Göring. Kelley hopes to gain Göring’s confidence and exploit his arrogance, both to gather intelligence for his superiors and to secure a lucrative book deal after the war. However, he’s surprised to find that the shrewd Göring is also manipulating him, using Kelley’s compassion to his own benefit. The result is a captivating psychological battle, powerfully brought to life by outstanding performances from both actors. Crowe is particularly effective, drawing the audience in just as he captivates Kelley.

The film boasts a talented supporting cast that elevates its already strong script. Leo Woodall delivers a particularly striking performance as Sgt. Howie Triest, a young American translator with a poignant link to Germany. John Slattery convincingly portrays the stern Colonel Burton C. Andrus, the warden of Nuremberg Prison, while Lotte Verbeek brings surprising depth and humanity to the character of Emmy Göring.

The film vividly recreates the courtroom where the trial took place. The filmmakers carefully build suspense leading up to the trial itself, making the sequence surprisingly moving. From the opening scenes, you feel the tension and discomfort as Göring and other Nazi leaders enter the room, and every question and answer keeps you captivated. However, the most impactful moments come from the inclusion of actual footage from the concentration camps – the very same footage used during the historical trial, and it’s deeply disturbing to watch.

I was really struck by the ending of “Nuremberg” – a quote about understanding what people are capable of by looking at what they’ve already done. It’s a thought that lingered with me long after the credits rolled, and honestly, director Vanderbilt expertly weaves that idea throughout the entire film. It’s not just a compelling historical piece; it feels incredibly relevant to what’s happening in the world today, which makes it even more impactful. While it maybe could have explored some areas in greater detail, the film’s message is powerfully clear, and it’s delivered with a genuine sense of urgency.

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2025-11-10 18:58