Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a 149‑minute American psychological thriller that dives into the tense, post‑war atmosphere of 1945 Germany. Written, co‑produced and directed by James Vanderbilt, the film follows U.S. Army psychiatrist Lt. Col. Douglas Kelley (Rami Malek) as he is tasked with evaluating the mental fitness of 22 high‑ranking Nazis—including Hermann Göring (Russell Crowe)—in preparation for the historic Nuremberg trials. The story is grounded in Jack El‑Hai’s 2013 book The Nazi and the Psychiatrist, giving it a solid research base while still delivering a gripping narrative.

The movie balances courtroom drama with a more intimate psychological portrait. Kelley’s job isn’t just to assess the Nazis’ sanity; he’s also caught in a moral tug‑of‑war as he navigates the ethics of justice, the weight of history, and his own personal ambitions. The film’s tension comes from the clash between Kelley’s scientific curiosity and Göring’s cunning intellect, set against the backdrop of a world trying to reckon with the horrors of the Holocaust.

The cast is a star‑packed lineup that brings depth to the story. Rami Malek delivers a nuanced performance as the conflicted psychiatrist, while Russell Crowe’s portrayal of Göring is both charismatic and chilling, earning particular praise from critics. Michael Shannon, Richard E. Grant, Leo Woodall, John Slattery, Colin Hanks, and Wrenn Schmidt round out a strong supporting ensemble that keeps the narrative grounded in real human drama.

Critics have generally responded positively. On Rotten Tomatoes, 72 % of 194 reviews are favorable, with reviewers highlighting Crowe’s commanding presence and the film’s polished production. Metacritic gives it a 61/100, noting the movie’s measured pacing and emotional restraint. Matt Zoller Seitz of RogerEbert.com gave it three out of four stars, calling it an earnest, unpretentious film that aims to educate as well as entertain. Some reviewers, like Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian, found the film’s tone a bit mechanical, but most agree that it’s a solid, well‑crafted historical drama.

If you’re a fan of period pieces that explore the moral complexities of history, or if you enjoy thoughtful performances from actors like Malek and Crowe, Nuremberg will likely resonate with you. On the flip side, if you prefer fast‑paced action or light‑hearted fare, the film’s deliberate pacing and heavy subject matter might feel a bit slow. Either way, it’s a compelling look at a pivotal moment in world history, wrapped in a tense, character‑driven narrative that keeps you thinking long after the credits roll.