Review of Denial (2016) by Bhbarry — 15 Oct 2016

“Denial” is the true story of an American Holocaust scholar, Deborah E. Lipstadt, who was sued for libel by a Holocust denier as recounted in her book entitled “Trial: My Day in Court with a Holocaust Denier”.

The screenplay for the film was written by David Hare based on Ms. Lipstadt’s book. Mick Jackson directed the film which stars Rachel Weisz, Tom Wilkinson and Timothy Spatt. This is basically a courtroom drama played out in the London courts and gives the audience a clear understanding of the fundamentals of the British legal system and the roles the solicitor and barrister play.

Yet this is not just another Holocaust story but a rather sensitive and personal insight into those who teach about this unfortunate event in world history as well as those who lived to tell about it.

Ms. Weisz’ performance is extraordinary and she communicates her dedication to the role certainly in some part because of her own personal background and experience. As a lawyer I can recite a number of improbabilities and inaccuracies that take place in the courtroom scenes but one must remember that the screenplay is based on the perceptions of Ms.

Lipstadt and I believe that, had there been more input from a barrister or solicitor in the making of the film, the noted inaccuracies would not have appeared. That being said, and seeing the film as a layman seeking a good entertainment experience, this film adequately attains that goal.

Accordingly, I give the film an 8 with much of the credit going to Ms. Weisz who is largely responsible for its positive rating,.