Russell Crowe’s latest film, a WWII drama titled Nuremberg, will debut on Netflix on March 7, giving viewers access to what has become a remarkable hidden gem. The movie features Crowe in one of his most intense roles, portraying Hermann Göring, Hitler’s second in command, during a pivotal moment in history. The story centers on U.S. Army psychiatrist Douglas Kelley, played by Rami Malek, who evaluates Nazi officials in preparation for the historic Nuremberg Trials.
From Initial Reception to Box Office and Critical Success
While Nuremberg struggled at the U.S. box office, earning just $14.5 million domestically, it found significant success internationally, reaching a total of $45.5 million. This overseas response, especially in European markets like Italy, helped elevate the film’s reputation and solidified it as a sleeper hit. The budget was estimated between $7 million and $10 million, highlighting the film’s substantial return relative to its costs. Crowe’s star power and the film’s historical relevance played major roles in encouraging audiences abroad.
Before its release, the movie premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), where early reviews were mixed, reflected by a Rotten Tomatoes score in the 30s. However, critics’ and audiences’ opinions improved substantially over time, pushing the movie’s critic rating to 72% fresh on Rotten Tomatoes. Moviegoer response was even more positive, with the audience score reaching an impressive 95%, the highest of Crowe’s career and surpassing hits like L.A. Confidential (94%) and American Gangster (90%).
Acting, Direction, and Source Material Behind the Film
Nuremberg drew praise for its straightforward storytelling and compelling direction, helmed by James Vanderbilt, who also wrote the screenplay. Crowe’s chilling portrayal of Göring earned widespread acclaim and sparked discussions about potential award recognition. Although Crowe made the longlist for Best Actor at the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards, he did not advance to the final shortlist. Rami Malek’s performance as Douglas Kelley was also highly regarded for the intense dynamic he shared with Crowe’s character in a battle of wits on screen.
The film’s narrative is based on Jack El-Hai’s 2013 book, The Nazi and the Psychiatrist, adding historical depth to the storytelling. The supporting cast includes notable actors such as Leo Woodall, John Slattery, Richard E. Grant, Michael Shannon, and Colin Hanks, who contribute to the movie’s layered portrayal of the Nazi tribunal.
Ongoing Release Strategy and Audience Discovery
Though Nuremberg has yet to premiere in some nations, including Germany (scheduled for April 2026), it is already available through digital home release platforms. Despite its lackluster performance in the U.S. box office, the film has gained traction as a premium video on demand (PVOD) success. This growing popularity suggests that more American viewers are discovering the significance and quality of Crowe’s recent work.
With strong word of mouth building momentum, the Netflix debut presents an opportunity for Nuremberg to reach a broader audience. This release may finally cement its status as a notable WWII film and fulfill its potential in the streaming era, offering the U.S. public a chance to engage with Crowe’s intense and powerful portrayal of a complex historical figure.
