Watch The Meaning of Hitler

The Meaning of Hitler is a documentary film released in 2020 that examines the cultural fascination with Adolf Hitler and his impact on the world. The film is directed by Petra Epperlein and Michael Tucker and features a variety of interviews with scholars, historians, and writers. The film opens with footage of Hitler's speeches and rallies, setting the stage for a discussion of his influence. The filmmakers then delve into the ways in which Hitler has been portrayed in popular culture, from Charlie Chaplin's satirical take on him in The Great Dictator, to his portrayal as a monster in war films like Saving Private Ryan.

The film also explores the ways in which Hitler has been mythologized and how his ideas continue to resonate today, despite the atrocities he committed. Several interviews with experts in the field of propaganda shed light on how Hitler was able to manipulate the masses and how his legacy continues to be felt today.

One of the most interesting aspects of the film is its examination of the role that Hitler's own words and writings have played in shaping his legacy. The filmmakers interview Martin Amis, an author who edited a collection of Hitler's speeches and writings that was published in 2019. Amis discusses how important it is to engage with Hitler's own words in order to understand his mindset and worldview.

The film also explores the ways in which Hitler has been used as a symbol for various political movements. The filmmakers interview members of the alt-right and white nationalist groups who have adopted Hitler as a hero, as well as Holocaust survivors who are horrified by this appropriation.

Throughout the film, the filmmakers ask a series of provocative questions about Hitler and his legacy. What does it mean to be fascinated by Hitler? Can we ever truly understand his impact on the world? How do we reconcile the atrocities he committed with his continued influence on popular culture?

The filmmakers do not offer easy answers to these questions, but they do succeed in shining a light on the complexity of Hitler's legacy. The film is both thought-provoking and chilling, and it serves as a reminder of the danger of ideology and the importance of vigilant opposition to those who seek to spread hate and division.

Overall, The Meaning of Hitler is a must-see documentary for anyone interested in history, culture, and the enduring legacy of one of the most notorious figures in human history. It is a sobering reminder of the need to remain vigilant against hatred and to continue to resist those who would seek to divide us.

The Meaning of Hitler is a 2021 documentary. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3 and a MetaScore of 76.