"The Nazis: A Warning from History" is a six-episode documentary that explores the rise and fall of the NSDAP from the aftermath of World War I to Hitler's downfall in 1945. The series follows both chronological and thematic approaches, covering topics like the party's origins, journey to power, Anschluss, Eastern resettlement, death camps, and the Reich's collapse.
The first episode delves into the workers' revolution in München and the perception of a Jewish-Communist alliance due to Jews in the Communist leadership. Street clashes reflect society's quest for stability.
The Gestapo's local operations and its reliance on neighbor-based surveillance are illustrated through a Nürnberg case. An informant's interview reveals how innocent citizens were denounced.
The "Wild East" segment uncovers varying Nazi approaches to Germanizing Poland due to Hitler's management style, fostering bureaucratic divisions.
Unlike typical demonizing documentaries, "The Nazis: A Warning from History" provides fresh insights into the Nazi state's development and supporters, fostering a nuanced view of totalitarianism. It echoes Resnais' "Night and Fog."
