Nuremberg  (Prime Video)

Nuremberg is a psychological historical drama about the Nuremberg trials at the end of World War II, where the Nazi high command was tried for crimes against humanity. The film features a large cast, but four main characters drive the story: Russell Crowe as Hermann Göring, Michael Shannan as Justice Robert H. Jackson, Rami Malic as Dr. Douglas Kelly, and Leo Woodall as the translator.

Rami is the psychologist brought to Nuremberg to evaluate the mental state of prisoners on trial. He interacts most with the Nazis, especially Goring. They form a bond that lasts throughout the film, changing from a purely clinical relationship to a quasi-friendship. It is quasi because how can you truly befriend a monster?

Rami delivers a passionate performance. He acts as the link between Goring, the justice, and the military. Sometimes, his emotions override his professional judgment. His most complex relationship is with Goring. They are engaged in a game of who controls whom. Goring possesses a superior intellect, complemented by his narcissistic personality. A question throughout the film is whether they have developed a friendship. It is a mercurial relationship.

Crowe is the centerpiece of the film. He delivers a powerful performance, only showing his humanity when he questions his wife and daughter. He depicts Goring as incredibly confident, to the point where Rami and the justices worry he might manipulate the trial to overturn his conviction. Crowe is great at showing arrogance with a smile.

Shannon is the justice assigned to prosecute the case for America. This is the first time an international tribunal has been convened to prosecute war crimes. The responsibility of the case weighs heavily on him. Shannon performs his role in his usual understated manner.

Leo Woodal gives a sublime performance. He tells the story of the victims. He is an American soldier, a Jew born in Germany, and recounts how he and his sister escaped Germany.  He knows his parents were taken to a concentration camp, but does not know their fate.

The film is rated PG-13, but the actual footage of the Nazi concentration camps is disturbing.

I recommend, if you can, seeing the 1961 film Judgement at Nuremberg. I think it gives a more complex story.