What Is It Like to Portray Nazi Heinrich Himmler? Martin Müller Shares His Experience on ‘I Is Another’

In a bold and thought-provoking move, German actor Martin Müller takes on the daunting task of portraying one of history's most notorious figures, Nazi Heinrich Himmler, in the upcoming film 'I Is Another' (Ich Ist ein Anderer). Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous 1950s, the film delves into the complexities of the human psyche, exploring the intricacies of power, morality, and the blurred lines between good and evil.

Background & Context

The film, directed by Felix Randau, is a gripping drama that follows the story of Felix Kersten, a former massage therapist to Himmler, played by Claes Bang. Kersten claims to have helped thousands of concentration camp prisoners escape during the Nazi era, but his claims are met with skepticism by a determined journalist, Hedda, played by Valerie Pachner. The film's narrative is a commentary on the dangers of ignoring or downplaying the presence of evil in society, a warning that resonates eerily in today's world.

The rise of far-right ideologies in Germany, exemplified by the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, has sparked concerns about the country's growing anti-immigration sentiment and the resurgence of extremist ideologies. Against this backdrop, the film's exploration of the complexities of human nature and the dangers of neglecting evil is more relevant than ever.

Key Details

Casting the role of Himmler proved to be the production's most significant challenge. Director Felix Randau sought an actor who could bring a sense of subtlety and nuance to the role, an individual who could convey the character's complexity and depth. After a lengthy search, Randau finally found Martin Müller, a talented actor known for his stage and TV work. Müller brings a level of depth and sophistication to the role, making him an ideal choice for the part.

Randau's approach to casting Müller was not without controversy, however. Some actors were hesitant to take on the role, citing concerns about providing a platform for an individual who had perpetrated such heinous crimes. Randau's response was that ignoring or downplaying evil would only serve to allow it to grow and thrive in the shadows, a sentiment that is both poignant and thought-provoking.

Müller joins an illustrious list of actors who have portrayed Himmler on screen, including Stephen Graham, Eddie Marsan, and Matthias Freihof. Each of these actors brought their own unique interpretation to the role, but Müller's portrayal is notable for its subtlety and nuance. By avoiding the more obvious characteristics of the character, Müller creates a sense of unease and uncertainty, drawing the audience into the complexities of the narrative.

What Experts Say

The film's exploration of the dangers of ignoring or downplaying evil is a timely commentary on the world we live in today. As far-right ideologies continue to gain traction in Europe and beyond, it is essential to remember the lessons of history and the dangers of neglecting the presence of evil in society. By portraying Himmler in a nuanced and complex light, Müller and Randau create a sense of unease and uncertainty, encouraging the audience to think critically about the world around them.

The film's message is reinforced by the context in which it is being released. The Locarno Film Festival, where the film will have its world premiere, is a celebration of the best in international cinema. By choosing to showcase 'I Is Another' at this prestigious event, the festival organizers are highlighting the importance of films that tackle difficult subjects and challenge the audience to think critically.

Key Takeaways

• The film 'I Is Another' explores the complexities of human nature and the dangers of neglecting evil in society.
• Director Felix Randau's approach to casting Martin Müller as Himmler was not without controversy, but the actor brings a level of depth and sophistication to the role.
• The rise of far-right ideologies in Germany and beyond is a timely reminder of the dangers of ignoring or downplaying evil in society.
• The film's message is reinforced by the context in which it is being released, highlighting the importance of films that tackle difficult subjects and challenge the audience to think critically.

What This Means For You

The film 'I Is Another' is a timely and thought-provoking commentary on the dangers of ignoring or downplaying evil in society. As we navigate the complexities of the world around us, it is essential to remember the lessons of history and to think critically about the presence of evil in our midst. By engaging with films like 'I Is Another', we can gain a deeper understanding of the human condition and the importance of confronting the challenges that we face.

We invite you to engage with the film and to think critically about the themes and messages that it presents. Share your thoughts and opinions with us, and join the conversation about the importance of films that tackle difficult subjects and challenge the audience to think critically. Together, we can create a more informed and empathetic society, one that is better equipped to confront the challenges of the world around us.