IGN’s Nuremberg Game Review

Nuremberg, directed and written by James Vanderbilt, is set to hit theaters on November 7. This historical drama revisits the controversial war crimes trials held after World War II. The film examines the enduring impact of the war and the prejudices that led to its horrors.

The Plot Overview

The narrative unfolds shortly after Adolf Hitler’s death in 1945. Hermann Göring, portrayed by Russell Crowe, surrenders to U.S. forces, marking the film’s dramatic start. Alongside 21 other Nazi officials, Göring is taken to Nuremberg, Germany, where American Supreme Court Justice Robert H. Jackson, played by Michael Shannon, prepares to prosecute them for war crimes.

Main Characters

• Hermann Göring: Played by Russell Crowe, he is the film’s central antagonist with a complex personality.
• Robert H. Jackson: Michael Shannon portrays the determined Supreme Court Justice leading the prosecution.
• Douglas Kelley: Rami Malek takes on the role of a psychiatrist entangled in the moral dilemmas surrounding the trials.
• Sergeant Howie Triest: Leo Woodall plays the translator caught between personal and professional pressures.

Thematic Exploration

Nuremberg is less focused on the trial itself and more on the psychological interplay between Kelley and Göring. Kelley is tasked with maintaining Göring’s mental health while grappling with his own ambitions. The film highlights his complicated relationship with the infamous Nazi leader, illustrating how his desire for personal gain clashes with ethical considerations.

Critical Analysis

The film’s tone is uneven, particularly in the opening act, which features moments of humor that feel misplaced in the context of such serious subject matter. While it attempts to engage modern audiences, this choice detracts from the film’s intended gravity.

Fortunately, the performances elevate the film. Crowe’s portrayal of Göring balances charm with menace, creating a character that captivates even as it borders on caricature. The supporting cast, including Shannon and Woodall, delivers reliable performances, adding depth to the narrative.

Performance Highlights

• Russell Crowe effectively embodies Göring’s duality, maintaining intrigue throughout.
• Michael Shannon portrays Jackson’s moral authority convincingly.
• Leo Woodall’s character adds emotional layers, particularly in key scenes.

Conclusion

While Nuremberg may not fully capture the complexities of the trials as effectively as previous films, such as Stanley Kramer’s 1961 classic, it still presents a compelling exploration of moral ambiguity. The movie’s ultimate message emphasizes that the ideologies leading to the atrocities of the past persist in various forms globally. As it opens in theaters on November 7, Nuremberg invites viewers to reflect on the historical implications of World War II and its relevance today.