Nuremberg

Nuremberg is a 149‑minute American psychological thriller‑drama that dives into the tense, post‑war atmosphere of 1945‑46. 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 Nazi leaders—including Hermann Göring (Russell Crowe)—before they stand trial at the 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 that defined the early days of the war‑crimes trials.

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 solid supporting ensemble that keeps the courtroom drama grounded in real human conflict.

Nuremberg premiered in the Gala Presentations section of the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival on September 7, 2025, earning a four‑minute standing ovation—one of the longest in TIFF history. Sony Pictures Classics released it in the United States on November 7, 2025, and it has since earned a 71 % approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 61/100 on Metacritic, indicating generally favorable reviews. Praise has focused on Crowe’s performance and the film’s measured pacing, while some critics note that its restrained emotional tone can feel a bit mechanical.

If you’re a fan of historical dramas that dig into the moral gray areas of war, or if you appreciate a film that balances character study with a broader political context, Nuremberg will likely resonate with you. It’s a thoughtful, well‑intentioned piece that aims to educate and inspire rather than deliver high‑octane action. On the flip side, if you’re looking for a fast‑paced thriller or a light, escapist movie, this 149‑minute feature might feel a bit slow and heavy.

With a modest budget of $11.8 million and a box‑office return of $37 million, Nuremberg proves that a compelling story about the human psyche can stand on its own, even in a crowded genre. Whether you’re drawn to the psychological depth of the characters or the historical significance of the Nuremberg trials, this film offers a nuanced look at a pivotal moment in history—without giving away the twists and turns that keep you engaged until the very end.