Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a 149‑minute American psychological thriller‑historical drama 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 called to evaluate the mental fitness of 22 high‑ranking Nazis, including Hermann Göring (Russell Crowe), before they face the newly‑established International Military Tribunal in Nuremberg. The story is grounded in the 2013 book The Nazi and the Psychiatrist by Jack El‑Hai, and it explores the clash of intellect and ethics between Kelley and Göring as they navigate the murky waters of justice, memory, and personal ambition.

The cast is a star‑packed lineup: Rami Malek brings a quiet intensity to Kelley, while Russell Crowe delivers a commanding, nuanced portrayal of Göring that critics have singled out as a highlight. Michael Shannon, Richard E. Grant, Leo Woodall, John Slattery, Colin Hanks, Wrenn Schmidt, Lydia Peckham, and Mark O’Brien round out a strong supporting ensemble that adds depth to the courtroom drama and the behind‑the‑scenes intrigue.

Released theatrically in the United States on November 7, 2025 by Sony Pictures Classics, the film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 7, 2025, earning a four‑minute standing ovation—one of TIFF’s longest ever. With a modest budget of $11.8 million, Nuremberg has already pulled in over $37 million worldwide, proving that a well‑crafted period piece can find a sizable audience.

Critics have generally warmed to the film. On Rotten Tomatoes, 71 % of 195 reviews are positive, with the consensus praising Crowe’s performance and the film’s polished production values, though noting its measured pacing and emotional restraint. Metacritic gives it a 61/100, describing it as “generally favorable.” Reviewers like Matt Zoller Seitz of RogerEbert.com applaud its earnest, unpretentious tone, while others—such as Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian—find the portrayal of Kelley a bit caricatured. The film’s strengths lie in its historical detail and the intellectual duel between psychiatrist and Nazi, but some viewers may find the pacing a bit slow or the dialogue too polished.

Who will enjoy Nuremberg? History buffs, fans of courtroom dramas, and those who appreciate a psychological thriller with a strong moral core will likely find it compelling. The film’s thoughtful pacing and focus on character over action may not appeal to viewers looking for high‑octane thrills or rapid plot twists. If you’re curious about the human side of the Nuremberg trials and the moral dilemmas that shaped modern justice, Nuremberg offers a thoughtful, well‑performed look at a pivotal moment in history.