RIEFENSTAHL

Writer/Director: Andres Veiel

Rating ★ ★ ★ ★

Currently screening as part of the 2025 German Film Festival

Commisioned by Hitler and backed by the might of the Nazi propaganda machine, actress-turned-filmmaker Leni Refenstahl crafted two of the most remarkable factual films in cinema history - TRIUMPH OF THE WILL (1934) and OLYMPIA (1938). These were documentaries that snapshot Germanic ideals in breathtakingly beautiful images; monochromatic montages that celebrated majestic Aryan physicality, nationalistic fervour and cultural dominance.

Andres Veiel’s chilling, artfully-rendered profile addresses the accusations that have plagued Riefenstahl and, since her 2003 death, her legacy. Was she aware of The Fuhrer’s motivation in commissioning her talents? Did she adhere to the master-race philosophies of ethnic cleansing?

This documentary is understated, allowing the oft-vilified filmmaker a strong voice (via masterfully curated archival people) that echoes denial, defence and defiance. It is ultimately entirely clear which side of the discussion Veiel favours, but his argument is never not balanced and meticulous.