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70% Critic Match
Before the Fall
“Men make history. We make the men.”
7.0 / 10• 2004• 1h 57m•NR• German
Drama
Storyline
In 1942, Friedrich Weimer's boxing skills get him an appointment to a National Political Academy (NaPolA) – high schools that produce Nazi elite. Over his father's objections, Friedrich enrolls. During his year in seventh column, Friedrich encounters hazing, cruelty, death, and the Nazi code. His friendship with Albrecht, the ascetic son of the area's governor, is central to this education.
Cast & Crew
Max Riemelt
Friedrich Weimer
Lead
Tom Schilling
Albrecht Stein
Devid Striesow
Heinrich Vogler
Joachim Bißmeier
Karl Klein
Justus von Dohnányi
Heinrich Stein
Michael Schenk
Josef Peiner
Florian Stetter
Justus von Jaucher
Alexander Held
Friedrich's Father
What People Are Saying
4.0
“A staggering achievement of craft and ambition. Dennis Gansel's vision lands with breathtaking precision.”
4.0
“Every frame feels alive. Before the Fall is the rare release that takes its audience seriously.”
