downfall (2002)
original title: Der Untergang
WITNESS THE HARROWING FALL OF HITLER’S LAST STAND.
Over the years there has certainly been no shortage of films centered around Hitler and WWII however; none have managed to capture the realism and accuracy exhibited in Oliver Hirschbiegel’s Downfall (Der Untergang).
Set during the fall of the Third Reich & Berlin throughout the time of World War II, Downfall re-tells the story of Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler’s final days in his Berlin bunker. As the plot is derived directly from the real-life Traudl Junge, Hitler’s final secretary, the film in return holds a strong sense of authenticity.
With Germany standing on the brink of defeat and the Soviet Armies closing in from the West and South, we are witness to the obscene actions of not only the Fuhrer himself but those that pledge to die with him as well as those that betray him in an effort to save their own lives. Once that final curtain falls after Hitler ends his own life, the German military must decide if they wish to continue the Fuhrer’s legacy and fight till the last man or lay down their arms in surrender.
Downfall is an incredibly powerful film and one that sticks with you long after watching. What’s most powerful about this film is director Hirschbiegel and writer Eichinger’s humane approach to Hitler, which as hard as it may be to write, allows us to feel some sort of sympathy for a man that can only be described as pure evil. As the film goes on we see the complete destruction of a paranoid human being as he goes from solemnly believing he can win this already lost battle to a fragmented man accepting defeat. It’s a frightening watch as we never know what this deranged soul might do.
What’s impressive about Eichinger’s script is that every scene is relevant and integral to the plot, even if some feel they drag on a bit. Hirschbiegel does a phenomenal job directing, his technique of portraying the majority of the deaths (including Hitler’s) off-screen, relying only on sound is truly harrowing. He is a director that brings out the best in his cast and crew which is evident on the screen. From amazing set designs that make us feel we are actually there in 1945 to outstanding performances that are probably the closest depiction of what really happened.
Whilst the whole cast is impressive and helps provide such an authentic story, it’s Bruno Ganz and his portrayal of Hitler that dominates the film. This is truly one of the greatest performances I have ever seen, from the moment Ganz appears as Hitler, a harrowing chill runs through your spine as it actually feels like we are witnessing the monster himself. Ganz brings Hitler’s mannerisms to the forefront which makes it all the more authentic whilst his manic outbursts are terrifying, to say the least.
Downfall is a terrific piece of cinema and a unique take on the evilest dictator who ever lived. A harrowing and gripping film that oozes with authenticity and reminds us all that power can persuade and deceive even the most innocent of minds.
★★★★☆
17 OCTOBER 2018
