‘Nuremberg’ Tries To Indict Us All » Urban Milwaukee

The release of Nuremberg (2025) has sparked renewed discussion about depictions of historical trauma and the complexities of portraying justice. The film centers on the first trial of Nazi leaders following World War II, specifically focusing on Hermann Göring. However, comparisons to the 1961 film Judgment at Nuremberg reveal a significant difference in approach and impact.

Echoes of the Past

Both films utilize the same powerfully disturbing footage: newsreels documenting the liberation of Nazi concentration camps. This footage, originally featured in the 1956 French documentary Night and Fog, remains profoundly affecting, showcasing the horrific reality of barely living corpses and mass graves. The inclusion of this footage in both Nuremberg and Judgment at Nuremberg is presented as a pivotal moment, effectively sealing the fate of the accused.

A Tale of Two Trials

While both films address the Nuremberg trials, they differ in scope. Nuremberg (2025) focuses on the initial trial of high-ranking Nazi officials, while Judgment at Nuremberg (1961) examines the trials of lesser Nazis at a time when public outrage had diminished. The 1961 film benefited from strong performances by Spencer Tracy as the judge and Maximilian Schell as the German defense lawyer, alongside appearances by Richard Widmark, Montgomery Clift, and Judy Garland.

Did You Know? Robert Jackson stepped down from the U.S. Supreme Court to create and run the international tribunal at Nuremberg.

A Modern Interpretation

The 2025 film Nuremberg attempts to draw parallels between the historical events and the potential for similar hatreds to erupt in any country. This approach, however, is described as “ham-handed and melodramatic.” Russell Crowe portrays Hermann Göring, emphasizing his weight and amused demeanor, presenting a somewhat sympathetic, yet arrogant, depiction of the surviving Third Reich leader. The film reportedly stretches scenes to portray the trial as a battle of wits.

Performance Highlights

Despite criticisms of the film’s overall approach, some performances are noted as particularly strong. Michael Shannon delivers a measured and inscrutable performance as Robert Jackson, powerfully reciting the statement: “What makes this inquest significant is that these prisoners represent sinister influences that will lurk in the world long after their bodies have returned to dust.” Richard E. Grant also receives praise for his clipped delivery as the British prosecutor.

Expert Insight: The comparison between the 1961 and 2025 films highlights the challenge of revisiting historical tragedies. While contemporary interpretations may aim to draw broader lessons, they risk losing the raw emotional impact and nuanced character portrayals of earlier works.

Nuremberg (2025) opened in November on approximately 2,000 U.S. movie screens and remains available on various streaming platforms.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the newsreel footage in both films?

The newsreel footage of the liberated concentration camps is presented as a crucial element in securing convictions at the Nuremberg trials, demonstrating the horrific realities of the Nazi regime.

Who played key roles in the 1961 film, Judgment at Nuremberg?

Spencer Tracy played the judge, Maximilian Schell played the German defense lawyer, and the film also featured Richard Widmark, Montgomery Clift, Judy Garland, and Burt Lancaster.

How is Hermann Göring portrayed in the 2025 film?

Russell Crowe portrays Göring as a somewhat sympathetic family man, but also as boastfully arrogant and the surviving leader of the Third Reich, with the film reportedly emphasizing a “duel of wits” between him and the prosecution.

Given the enduring power of historical footage and the complexities of revisiting such events, how do filmmakers balance the need for accuracy with the desire to create compelling narratives?