Review of Downfall (2004) by Brian G — 01 Apr 2014
What excels in Hirschbiegel's dramatic historical piece IS the history itself. I've never seen the German high command or Hitler's final days so well narrated than here in this overly long film.
It is overly long as a supporting cast of players has to be set up and paid off in order to compensate for the hero of the film, Hitler, also being the villain. Obviously most of us won't be rooting against the Soviets and Americans to end the war and so we are left with pity for Hitler's vision, beliefs, and eventual downfall.
His devoted followers are so absorbed in their blind following that when reason and conscious protest, they are so quickly buried under lies and oaths again that we are left wondering how humans become so enamored with folly.
The occasional depressing scene brings back the horror of the time and again the extreme measures that the Nazi party take to maintain control and ideals is grotesque. The performances, especially by Ganz and Maria Lara, are stellar.
If you have a love for this time period or an interest in the OTHER side of the story, definitely give this film a viewing. It is hard to watch at times but succeeds in many ways.
This review of Downfall (2004) was written by Brian G on 01 Apr 2014.
Downfall has generally received very positive reviews.
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