Nuremberg
American psychiatrist evaluates Nazi war criminals during historic post-WWII trials
The brief
Vanderbilt turns the Nuremberg trials into a tense psychological chess match, with Crowe's weary American psychiatrist squaring off against Malek's chillingly articulate Hermann Göring in claustrophobic interrogation scenes that crackle with intellectual menace. The film moves like a slow-burn courtroom thriller, building dread through conversation rather than action, as moral certainties dissolve under the weight of manipulative Nazi rhetoric. Crowe anchors it with exhausted determination while Malek delivers his most unsettling performance since Mr. Robot, making evil feel disturbingly reasonable. Perfect for anyone who loved The Reader or wanted Spotlight but with war criminals.
The verdict
If you're drawn to cerebral thrillers that prioritize psychological warfare over action and don't mind spending nearly two and a half hours watching morally complex conversations, this is a gripping showcase for both Crowe's weary intensity and Malek's chilling charisma. If you prefer faster-paced entertainment or feel uncomfortable with films that give articulate platforms to Nazi ideology, skip this slow-burn courtroom drama and watch something with clearer heroes.
Watch with
- 👫 History buffs and serious drama lovers
- ⚠️ Those seeking lighter entertainment
Heads up
- Discussion of Nazi war crimes and genocide (frequent)
- Psychological manipulation and gaslighting (moderate)
- Historical trauma and suffering references (moderate)
Credits
- Director
- James Vanderbilt
- Cast
- Russell Crowe, Rami Malek, Michael Shannon, Leo Woodall, John Slattery, Richard E. Grant, Colin Hanks
Official synopsis
In postwar Germany, an American psychiatrist must determine whether Nazi prisoners are fit to go on trial for
The Double
Make a night of it
Pair this with The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas (2008)
Both examine moral complexity and human cost of Nazi atrocities.
Total runtime: 2h 28m + 1h 34m = 4h 2m
