The film Nuremberg, written and directed by James Vanderbilt, revisits the historic trials of Nazi leaders nearly eight decades ago, aiming to explore the nature of evil through the intense courtroom drama. Russell Crowe stars as Hermann Göring, one of Adolf Hitler’s closest lieutenants, delving into a role that challenges perceptions of charisma entwined with monstrous deeds.
The cast also includes Rami Malek playing Army psychiatrist Douglas Kelley, John Slattery as a U.S. officer, Richard E. Grant portraying one of the tribunal judges, and Michael Shannon as Robert H. Jackson, the chief U.S. prosecutor in the first international tribunal held after World War II. Vanderbilt’s film highlights both the legal proceedings and the lingering questions about morality and accountability.
Behind the Scenes: Crafting a Story of Historical and Moral Significance
James Vanderbilt revealed how he was immediately compelled by the story when he first encountered it more than ten years ago. He described his swift commitment to the project, emphasizing his interest in understanding “the nature of evil.” The film aims to present the trials not just as historical events but as a gripping and thought-provoking thriller that remains relevant to contemporary audiences.
Russell Crowe and his co-star Leo Woodall faced the challenge of performing in German, a language neither spoke before joining the production. Vanderbilt noted that both actors dedicated significant effort to authentically embody their characters, particularly Crowe, who sought to capture Göring’s manipulative charisma. Crowe’s portrayal intends to reveal how such a figure could entice and horrify viewers simultaneously.
Powerful Performances Amplify the Story’s Intensity
Rami Malek praised the atmosphere on set, especially during tense scenes within the claustrophobic cell where much of the action takes place. Malek described the emotional intensity of his interactions with Crowe, calling their exchanges “magnificent” and highlighting the human complexity they brought out in each other despite the characters’ opposing roles.
John Slattery highlighted the story’s modern-day importance, noting that while the film is set in history, it addresses ongoing threats to democracy worldwide. He called the film “a thriller” rather than “a history lesson,” underscoring how the tribunal represented a pioneering moment in justice—using film footage as evidence and striving for impartial judgment despite the enormity of the crimes.
Authenticity and Emotional Weight of the Production
Richard E. Grant, nominated for an Oscar for Can You Ever Forgive Me?, praised the film’s meticulous attention to detail. The sets were recreated “down to the last millimeter,” he said, lending an impressive authenticity to the courtroom and other locations. Grant also mentioned the involvement of Hungarian extras, many of whom had real family experiences with Nazi or communist oppression, which added emotional depth and intensity to the production.
Michael Shannon brought his signature intensity to the role of Robert H. Jackson, finding the experience enriched his understanding of history beyond his school days. He admitted,
“I was a really lousy student,”
but noted that acting allowed him to deeply engage with historical events in a uniquely immersive way. Shannon emphasized the significance of Jackson’s belief that confronting evil requires dissecting its roots and manifestations within people, a vital skill for humanity.
Balancing Serious Themes with Subtle Humor
In a lighter moment during interviews, Shannon joked about the challenges his frequent director collaborator Jeff Nichols faces with funding, referencing Nichols’s acclaimed films such as Take Shelter and The Bikeriders. Shannon quipped that fans interested in future projects could support Nichols via a GoFundMe page, blending humor with an underlying respect for Nichols’s work.
Honoring History with a Thrilling and Emotional Narrative
For Rami Malek, who gained fame for his Oscar-winning role in Bohemian Rhapsody, Nuremberg offered a chance to explore a crucial chapter of history with nuance and depth. He expressed hope that the film would not only be seen as a successful project but as a meaningful story brought to life thoughtfully and unexpectedly.
James Vanderbilt also stressed his intention to create a film that moves beyond didactic retelling. Describing the project as a thriller infused with emotional impact, he likened it to the historical thrillers he admired growing up—such as JFK, Apollo 13, and Glory. Vanderbilt stressed that the movie, once released, ultimately belongs to the audience, inviting viewers to engage with its themes and questions about evil and justice.
