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Fatherland is a 2015 drama-thriller film directed by Christopher Menaul and starring Rutger Hauer, Miranda Richardson, and Michael Kitchen. The film is based on a 1992 novel of the same name by Robert Harris. The story is set in an alternative history where Germany won World War II, and the Third Reich continues to exist in 1964. The movie follows the story of Xavier March (played by Kitchen), a detective in the Berlin Kriminalpolizei. March is involved in a murder case, in which the victim is a high-ranking Nazi Party official. However, as March investigates the murder, he uncovers a conspiracy that threatens the very foundation of the Nazi regime.

March's investigations lead him to uncover evidence that suggests the Holocaust was not only carried out, but that the Nazi leadership knew about it all along. March's boss, Obergruppenführer Arthur Nebe (played by Hauer), warns him to stop his inquiries, but March ignores him and continues with his investigation. March then teams up with Charlotte Maguire (played by Richardson), an American journalist, to uncover the truth behind the murder and the conspiracy.

Fatherland is a film that explores a world where the Holocaust never became public knowledge. The film depicts a dystopian society created by the victory of the Axis powers, where the Nazi Party rules over Europe with an iron fist. The film's events are played out in a world where Germany has achieved complete dominance over Europe, and American isolationism has allowed Hitler's regime to maintain power.

The film takes a critical look at what might have happened if the Second World War had gone the other way. It explores the tension and paranoia that would have existed in a world dominated by Nazi ideology. The film examines the bleakness and hostility of a society built on hate and intolerance.

One of the strengths of the film is its cast. Julia Brendler plays a small, but pivotal role as a young woman who risks everything to help March uncover the truth, while Michael Kitchen delivers a superb performance in a complex role. Kitchen's portrayal of March is nuanced and believable, and the character's journey is compelling.

Miranda Richardson's performance is another standout in the film. Richardson's portrayal of Maguire, the American journalist, is reserved, but powerful. She brings a much-needed change of pace to the film, and her character's journalistic tenacity is essential to the progress of the story.

The film's production design is also top-notch. The set and costume design successfully capture the oppressive atmosphere of the oppressive state the characters exist in, and the film's post-war Berlin looks magnificent. The cinematography is also notable, with some beautifully crafted shots that capture the atmosphere and mood of the film.

Christopher Menaul's direction is effective in the film, with the pace of the story moving steadily and the tension building until the climactic finale. The film's depiction of the oppressive regime under Nazi rule is chilling, and it's uncertain what the future holds for the characters.

Overall, Fatherland is a thought-provoking film that raises questions about history and what might have happened if things had gone differently. It is an engaging thriller that keeps you hooked until the end, and the performances of the cast are fantastic. The film's production values are also high, and the atmosphere of the film is superbly executed. Recommended for anyone interested in alternate histories or political thrillers.

Fatherland is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 51 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.6.