What it’s about
Netflix’s documentary series “Hitler and the Nazis: Evil on Trial” vividly brings the historical Nuremberg Trials and Adolf Hitler’s rise to power to life, utilizing dramatic storytelling to captivate younger audiences.
Why it matters
Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Joe Berlinger, known for his gripping true-crime documentaries, this series not only uses high-quality cinematic techniques but also addresses the alarming trend of Holocaust ignorance among millennials and Gen Z. A survey has revealed distressingly high levels of unawareness, making this re-telling particularly relevant and crucial.
The packaging difference
Although the series may not present new historical content, its unique narrative structure and usage of restored archival footage set it apart. Designed like a narrative thriller, it contextualizes history through flashbacks and dramatically recreated scenes, aiming to humanize the events of World War II and the Holocaust for a contemporary audience.
Strategic timing
The series comes at a time when historical education on the Holocaust is faltering among newer generations. Berlinger notes that ignorance has shifted from denial to disturbing levels of misinformation. A staggering 50% of millennials cannot name a single concentration camp and 1 in 10 believe that Jews started the Holocaust.
Appealing to a younger audience
Netflix’s platform, with its vast global and younger audience, serves as the ideal channel for delivering this compelling narrative. By employing high-production interviews and archival footage integrated into the dramatic retelling, the series aims to achieve a poignant cinematic impact avoided by traditional documentaries.
Highlighting a key eyewitness
Journalist William Shirer, an American reporter present in Nazi Germany, serves as one of the main narrators thanks to advanced AI voice recreation. Shirer’s first-hand accounts validate the historical events portrayed, bridging the narrative gap for today’s digital-age viewers who may struggle to comprehend past journalistic constraints.
Personal inspiration
Berlinger’s own Jewish identity and history inspired him to tackle this crucial documentary. Despite growing up in a secular Jewish household, firsthand exposure to Holocaust footage profoundly moved him, driving his eventual commitment to understanding and conveying this dark chapter of history through his craft.
Historical parallels and present fears
While acknowledging that direct comparisons between Hitler and contemporary political figures like Donald Trump could be precarious, Berlinger stresses the importance of historical awareness. Recognizing echoes of populist sentiments and societal divisions from the past serves as a reminder of the fragile nature of democracy.
What’s next
As global political climates shift, this documentary stands as a timely educational tool. It highlights the dangers of ignorance and underscores the necessity of learning from history, residents and legislators alike should take heed of its production and message.
This story was first published on jpost.com.