Watch Meet the Hitlers

Meet the Hitlers is a 2014 documentary film directed by Matthew Ogens that explores the effect that Adolf Hitler's name has on people around the world. The film features interviews with individuals who have the last name Hitler, including an American family who named their son Adolf Hitler, a dictator in India who changed his name to Hitler, a propaganda artist who uses Hitler's image in his work, and many others.

The film begins with the story of Heath Campbell, a self-proclaimed Nazi living in New Jersey who named his son Adolf Hitler. The film follows the family as they navigate the aftermath of the media attention they received after their son's name became public knowledge. Heath speaks candidly about his beliefs and the struggles he faces as a result of his controversial name choice. Through this story, the film explores the impact of hate speech and the limits of free speech in American society.

As the film progresses, it moves beyond the American context and examines how Hitler's legacy has impacted individuals around the world. Viewers meet a political leader in India named Hitler Singh who changed his name to avoid the negative connotations associated with the name Hitler. The film also features interviews with artists who use Hitler's image in their work and explores the ongoing debate about the role of art in social commentary.

The film also touches on how Hitler's name has become a symbol of evil and hate, and how it has been appropriated by various groups for their own purposes. The film explores the role of the media in shaping public perception of Hitler and how his name continues to be used for shock value in news stories and media coverage.

Overall, Meet the Hitlers is a thought-provoking exploration of the power of names, symbols, and propaganda. Through the stories of individuals who share Hitler's last name, the film challenges viewers to confront their own assumptions and biases about this infamous historical figure. The film is well-paced and engaging, with a diverse range of perspectives that keep viewers engaged from start to finish.

One of the strengths of the film is its ability to draw connections between seemingly disparate stories and themes. The film moves seamlessly from the story of the Campbell family to the role of art and propaganda in shaping public opinion, to the legacy of colonialism in India. Through these diverse perspectives, the film creates a nuanced portrait of the impact of Hitler's legacy on the world today.

Overall, Meet the Hitlers is a must-watch documentary for anyone interested in the power of propaganda, the limits of free speech, and the ongoing impact of one of the most notorious figures in modern history. While the film does not provide easy answers or solutions, it encourages viewers to think critically about the ways in which hate speech and symbols of hate are used in our society.

Meet the Hitlers is a 2014 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 23 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.1.