When Hitler loved his niece, he really LOOOOOOOVED her!
I'm surprised no one has posted commentary yet on this compelling
telepic. Contrary to what some believe to be an attempt to "soften" Hitler, what this film manages to do is to add the dimension of humanity - in a most grotesque form - to the monster he was. Ken Stott is riveting as Hitler in his rise to infamy. Along the way, he picks up his young, vital niece, Geli (the dynamic Elaine Cassidy) who is just as headstrong and manipulative as he is - only she's sweet where he is obsessive. What is refreshing about this particular production is that Geli is not necessarily portrayed as Hitler's victim, but quite often his willing accomplice. She is vivacious, full of life, and love, and makes the mistake of believing she has control over him. No one controlled Hitler, and to that end this story goes. If there is a flaw w/ this production, it is not in the liberties it may or may not take with historical data (the DVD commentary track w/ the film's director, producer and writer reveals that painstaking turns were made in keeping as close to 'truth' as possible while still filling in gaps where no documentation exists), but in the editing of time between Hitler's past (w/ Geli) and his present (in his final days in the bunker). While there is some time line provided, there is not enough to keep the viewer from confusion during some of the later transitions, particularly those after Geli's death. Still, this is a compelling film w/ remarkable performances, particularly from Ken Stott but also from the two female leads, Elaine Cassidy and Christine Tremarko. The script is tightly woven w/ a bit of (BLACK) humour mixed into the otherwise overwhelming darkness that seems pervasive in all things Hitler.. |
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