Watch The Nightmare Years

The Nightmare Years is a historical drama movie, set in the early 1930s, directed by Anthony Page and starring Ronald Lacey as Adolf Hitler and Sam Waterston as William Shirer. The movie is based on the memoirs of journalist William Shirer's book The Nightmare Years, which chronicles the rise of the Nazi Party in Germany and the impact it had on his life as a foreign correspondent.

The movie begins with Shirer arriving in Berlin in 1934, where he is initially optimistic about the new German government as he believes that Hitler is providing much-needed stability in Germany. However, as he begins to cover the Nazi Party, he gradually realizes their true intentions and the threat they pose to Europe.

Through his reporting, Shirer starts to uncover the Nazi's anti-Semitic policies, their plans for expansion, and their brutal tactics. He also witnesses the propaganda machine of Joseph Goebbels, which aims to control the media and manipulate the German people.

As the movie progresses, Shirer becomes increasingly disillusioned with the Nazi regime, and his reporting becomes more critical. Meanwhile, he faces pressure from his American editors, who are wary of offending German advertisers and subscribers.

The movie also explores Shirer's personal life, including his marriage to Tess (played by Marthe Keller), a Frenchwoman who disapproves of his work in Germany. Their relationship is further strained when the Nazis pass the Nuremberg Laws, which make their marriage illegal under German law.

As the tensions between Germany and the rest of Europe escalate, Shirer makes a bold move by broadcasting live in defiance of Nazi censorship, risking his safety and career in the process.

The Nightmare Years is a well-made movie that offers a sobering look at the rise of Nazi Germany and the impact it had on the world. The performances are strong, with Sam Waterston delivering a nuanced portrayal of Shirer, and Ronald Lacey delivering a chilling performance as Adolf Hitler. The movie also offers a fascinating insight into the role of journalists in uncovering the truth and holding those in power accountable.

Overall, The Nightmare Years is a must-watch for anyone interested in history, journalism, or the human experience in times of great conflict. While it is a tense and thought-provoking movie, it is also a reminder of the importance of speaking truth to power, even in the face of adversity.