History brought to life

Rating: 10/10 (2 August 2005)

Hitler. A name most infamous and hated by many. A man who is considered the epitome of evil and hate. The "Downfall" of Hitler, and what actually took place in the bunker those last days, even though it may have been show in History, has never been explained in such detail. Downfall was a terrific film. The precision of the performances, most notably by Ganz was so true to the reality that was World War 2. It is a true eye opener to what it may have been like. The story is told from the perspective of Frau Junge, a young secretary for Hitler who finds herself in a situation that she was never get out of. Trapped in the world of propaganda, and working for the man who was key to mass murder of 6 million Jews.
The cinematography and use of camera angles was amazing. Moving and changing to adjust mood and space. Hitler grows from a figure of power, to a pitiful man who is mad with jealously, anger and hate for anyone and everyone. The acting was bar none. It was like history was playing out for you. Bruno Ganz is an amazing actor. I can't imagine how difficult it would be to portray such a man to the perfection Ganz performed. Eva Braun was a particularly interesting character. Her dysfunctional manner and inability to find the appropriateness in any situation was unsettling. I will hand to to the cast and crew of Downfall, you sent shivers down my spine. The brutish, cruel and rather sad life od Adolf Hitler, and the blinded dedication he was shown by his Nationalist-Socialist followers was so disturbing. If there is one criticism of the film, it would have to be the realism of it all. It was too real! This really isn't a criticism at all. It only emphasizes my point that this film was of the highest quality.
The Teutonic and harsh manner of the German was amazing. Scenes of despair and utter loss, yet the ability to get up and move on for the "sake" of National-Socialism. The idea was terrifying that people could be such blind followers. To be sucked into entirely and be pleased with the idea of murder, racism and anger. Downfall is not to be missed. If you do not wish to delve into intellectual discussion and would rather a film like "Bring it On Again", then perhaps this is not for you. This movie is for thinkers.
I wouldn't call it enjoyable, but it certainly is addictive. It is a great movie.