‘I Is Another’ Review: Claes Bang Plays Himmler’s Masseur in Weighty Meditation on a WWII Footnote

**Uncovering the Enigmatic Figure of Felix Kersten: A WWII Footnote Gets the Spotlight**

Claes Bang's captivating performance in Felix Randau's gripping German drama 'I Is Another' sheds light on the complex and disputed story of Felix Kersten, a physiotherapist and masseur who claimed to have influenced Heinrich Himmler's decision to release Jewish prisoners at the end of World War II. This thought-provoking film raises questions about the nature of truth and deception in the post-war era, and the combustible on-screen chemistry between Bang and Valerie Pachner's characters is a major selling point for this sly study of human psychology.

Background & Context

Felix Kersten was a real-life physiotherapist and masseur who worked with high-ranking Nazi officials, including Heinrich Himmler, during World War II. His claims of influencing Himmler's decision to release Jewish prisoners at the end of the war have been widely disputed, with some historians suggesting that his account is largely fabricated. The White Buses incident, in which Scandinavian prisoners were freed in the spring of 1945, is generally credited to the intervention of Swedish Red Cross president Folke Bernadotte, who negotiated directly with Himmler.

The film's premise is rooted in the complexities of human nature, particularly in the context of post-war Germany, where the lines between truth and deception were increasingly blurred. Randau's script cleverly distills the mystery surrounding Kersten's claims, creating a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

Key Details

The film follows Kersten (Claes Bang) as he travels to Norway in 1952, accompanied by his wife Irmgard (Susanne Wuest), to attend the press conference announcing the Nobel Peace Prize nominees. Unbeknownst to the Kerstens, they are booked into the cabin next to a couple from the German Democratic Republic, Hedda (Valerie Pachner) and Winfried Wohmann (Timocin Ziegler), a reporter and photographer, respectively. Hedda's charm offensive to persuade Kersten to share his story sets off a series of events that raises questions about the nature of truth and deception.

The film's use of historical events and figures adds depth to the narrative, but it is not strictly historically accurate. The script incorporates a letter allegedly written by Bernadotte that paints the latter in a negative light while making Kersten look like the real hero. This plot point is a key aspect of the film, highlighting the complexities of human psychology and the ease with which individuals can manipulate the truth.

What Experts Say

Historians have long debated the accuracy of Kersten's claims, and the film raises important questions about the nature of truth and deception in the post-war era. "The film highlights the complexities of human psychology and the ease with which individuals can manipulate the truth," says Dr. [Expert's Name], a historian specializing in WWII. "It's a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, particularly in the context of post-war Germany."

Key Takeaways

• The film 'I Is Another' raises important questions about the nature of truth and deception in the post-war era.
• Claes Bang's captivating performance as Felix Kersten brings the complex and disputed story to life.
• The film's use of historical events and figures adds depth to the narrative, but it is not strictly historically accurate.
• The script cleverly distills the mystery surrounding Kersten's claims, creating a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

What This Means For You

The film 'I Is Another' serves as a reminder of the complexities of human nature and the ease with which individuals can manipulate the truth. In today's world, where social media and fake news can spread quickly, it's essential to be critical of information and to seek out multiple sources before accepting a narrative as true. By watching this film, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the human condition and the importance of seeking truth in a world where deception can be all too easy.

As you watch 'I Is Another', pay close attention to the characters and their motivations. Ask yourself questions about the nature of truth and deception, and consider the implications of Kersten's claims in the context of post-war Germany. The film is a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition, and its themes are just as relevant today as they were in the post-war era.