Forbidden Films

Of the over 1000 movies made in Germany during the Nazi era, 40 of them are still banned from public showing in that country, except under special circumstances. (Or, at least, that was the case in 2014, when this documentary was made.) Forbidden Films is a look at these movies and the ethical dilemmas they create. Clips from various of the more egregious propaganda movies are shown, alternating with talking head shots of scholars and film makers who discuss their merits, or lack thereof. There are also shot of audience members' reactions at selected screenings of the movies. And then there is the interview with two neo-Nazis who discuss how the movies are still being used as recruitment tools. Among the issues raised are whether it will ever be safe to allow unfettered access to the movies, wouldn't controlled showings be useful as an educational tool and whether by censoring the movies, the German government isn't actually enhancing interest in them. Lots of food for thought with no easy answers.