Sunday, March 25, 2012

Downfall


Downfall shows the Third Reich in its final days, with Russia closing in on Berlin as Hitler and his cronies sit in a bunker and await the end. The focus, perhaps naturally, is on Hitler; specifically, his increasingly erratic and irrational behavior, his rants towards his commanders and the German people in general, and his final moments. But it's not just about him- you see a range of emotions and reactions from his advisors and the civilian population of the city.

Overall, it is an excellent film. There are some poignant, disturbing moments throughout, as you see Hitler (and others) deal with imminent defeat in horrifying ways. Hitler's secretary (still living as of the movie's production) introduces and concludes the film, as her experience with him in the bunker was the primary source material. It's a tad on the long side, at 2.5 hours, but well worth it.

Rating: A

No comments:

Post a Comment