Downfall (2004)

Downfall is a truly amazing film about the last days of Adolf Hitler and the Third Reich.

The film, based on the life of Hitler's last secretary, Traudl Junge, shows us the inner workings and true insanity that occured in Hitler's underground bunker in Berlin as the Russians and Americans took over their city. Alexandra Maria Lara plays the role of Junge and illustrates the innocence and loyalty that allowed her to be alive during this monumental time. Bruno Ganz as Adolf Hitler is nothing short of brilliant. His performance as the iconic, evil leader will stay with me for years to come.

The film, in German with English subtitles, begins with Junge and a group of other young ladies being called, in the middle of the nigth, to Hitler's bunker to interview to become his secretary. Junge's youth and the fact that she, as with Hitler, came from Munich, wins her the job. Hitler treats her with kindness and patience and respect, as a father would treat a daughter. On later occasions, however, when faced with the insurmountable task of defending his city and losing grip on his dreams, Hitler's rage is in full force. Every failure is treated as a personal betrayal to Hitler and he openly brags that he lacks any compassion, as it is a sign of weakness. When his decisions put the civilian population of Berlin in danger, Hitler blames them for the loss, believing that their weakness is at the root of the Third Reich's demise and that he shares no concern for their well being.

Downfall is one of those rare pieces of filmmaking that can actually be called a masterpiece. All of the actors are amazing and the writing is tremendous. To see such historic people at the end of the war is a stunning thing to observe. These leaders had tied their very existence to this dream of the Third Reich and as it crumbles around them, so does their own identity, their reason for living.

I cannot say enough good things about this film. Downfall is a must see film... period.