I thought downfall was superb, and I really don't see how it could be seen as disrespectful of holocaust victims. Yes it was a film about high ranking Nazis, their families and the intrigue panic and history of the fall of Hitler, but in no way did it reference the Holocaust (at least until the end where Traudl said her piece). From what I understand of Germany, (and I live with two people who study German and Germany for their degrees, and know many more more very well), the German people feel like they are still being forced to apologise for the Holocaust. The current generation obviously should never forget, nor any generation, but in Germany, people are tired of being made to feel guilty about it.
I don't want that to come off as harsh, but the point I'm getting at is that the Holocaust is nothing to do with Downfall: that's been dealt with, and I think it's about time that something like this can be done properly and respectfully.
The film is based on two books, one of which is based on Traudl's memoirs, which will obviously tend (intentionally or not) to paint her character in a positive light, yet there is little reason to throw into question the majority of the portrayals of the other people in the film.
My only real criticism of the film is the boy, Peter,
who ends up meeting up with Traudl at the climax - it seemed unnecessarily 'cheesy'.
If you can see this film, do. It's an excellent piece of cinema.
(Apologies for tangents)
