Russell Crowe delivers a commanding performance as Nazi Reichsmarschall Hermann Göring in the new historical drama Nuremberg, though Rami Malek's portrayal of an American army psychiatrist has drawn criticism for being overly theatrical.
A Psychological Battle Behind the Trials
The film focuses on the compelling real-life story behind the Nazi war-crime trials that commenced in November 1945. Before the proceedings began, US Army psychiatrist Dr Douglas Kelley was tasked with interviewing the imprisoned Nazi leaders, primarily Hermann Göring. While officially meant to assess their fitness for trial, Kelley's true mission was to gather insider intelligence on how the defendants would conduct their defence.
Russell Crowe is cast as the portly and pompous Göring, a role described as his best in years. He portrays the Nazi leader as a sly and cunning manipulator, expertly playing psychological cat-and-mouse games with his American captors.
Mixed Performances in a Historical Setting
In stark contrast to Crowe's praised performance, Rami Malek's turn as Dr Kelley has been labelled deeply silly. His interpretation is described as an eye-rolling, enigmatic-smiling hamfest that resembles an audition for a role in The Producers.
The supporting cast features Leo Woodall as American army translator Howie Triest, Michael Shannon as US chief prosecutor Robert H Jackson, and Richard E Grant as British Tory MP David Maxwell-Fyfe. The film notes that despite Maxwell-Fyfe's controversial post-war career as home secretary, his cross-examination of the Nazis was crucial to the proceedings.
Release Dates and Historical Context
The film attempts to frame Kelley as both a mercurial figure, eager to write a book about the trial for personal glory, and a conventionally decent hero. However, critics suggest the film struggles to balance these aspects, resulting in a character that lacks plausible nuance.
Nuremberg is scheduled for release on 6 November in Australia, 7 November in the US, and 14 November in the UK.
