Synopsis
Faking Hitler is a German-British drama miniseries that tells the story of the publication of a fake diary purportedly written by Adolf Hitler. The series is set in the 1980s, and it follows the journalists at the German magazine Stern who are responsible for the publication of the diary. The series explores the ethical implications of publishing such a controversial document, and it also examines the media’s role in shaping public opinion.
Cast and Director
The cast of Faking Hitler includes:
- Lars Eidinger as Konrad Kujau, the man who forged the Hitler diary
- Moritz Bleibtreu as Gerd Heidemann, the editor of Stern magazine
- Sinje Irslinger as Bettina Röhl, a young journalist at Stern
- Daniel Donskoy as Uwe Nettlebeck, a historian who authenticates the Hitler diary
- Ulrich Tukur as Werner Maser, a Hitler biographer
- Thomas Fehlen as Fritz Molden, the publisher of Stern magazine
The series is directed by Christian Schwochow.
Premiere Date
Faking Hitler premiered on Acorn TV on November 29, 2021.
Story Plot
The story of Faking Hitler begins in 1983, when Konrad Kujau, a German art forger, approaches Gerd Heidemann, the editor of Stern magazine, with a purported diary written by Adolf Hitler. The diary is filled with explosive revelations about Hitler’s private life and political plans, and Heidemann is eager to publish it. However, the authenticity of the diary is soon called into question, and the scandal that ensues rocks Germany to its core.
Critical Response
Faking Hitler has received generally positive reviews from critics. The series has been praised for its suspenseful plot, its strong acting, and its thought-provoking exploration of the ethical implications of publishing a fake document. The Guardian called the series “a gripping thriller that raises important questions about the media’s role in shaping public opinion.” The New York Times said that Faking Hitler is “a well-made and suspenseful drama that offers a fascinating glimpse into a dark chapter in German history.”
Life Lessons
Faking Hitler teaches us a number of life lessons, including:
- The importance of fact-checking before publishing a story.
- The power of the media to influence public opinion.
- The dangers of fake news.
- The importance of critical thinking.
- The importance of holding journalists accountable for their work.
Conclusion
Faking Hitler is a well-made and suspenseful drama that offers a fascinating glimpse into a dark chapter in German history. The series is sure to keep you entertained and engaged, and it will also make you think about the ethical implications of publishing a fake document.