Hitler’s Children (2011)
Hitler’s Children is a thought-provoking Israeli-German documentary film directed by Chanoch Zeevi. The film delves into the lives of the descendants of some of the most powerful figures in the Nazi regime, individuals whose family names are forever associated with one of the darkest chapters in human history: the Holocaust.
The film features interviews with relatives of Adolf Hitler’s inner circle, including Heinrich Himmler, Hans Frank, Hermann Göring, Amon Göth, and Rudolf Höss. These descendants grapple with the immense burden of their lineage, the weight of their surnames, and the atrocities committed by their forebears. Among them are:
- Bettina Goering: A descendant of Hermann Göring.
- Katrin Himmler: A relative of Heinrich Himmler.
- Monika Hertwig: Connected to Amon Göth.
- Rainer Höss: The grandson of Rudolf Höss.
- Niklas Frank: Whose father was Hans Frank.
These individuals share their conflicted feelings of guilt, responsibility, and revulsion. They navigate the delicate balance between their natural bonds as children and the horrors perpetrated by their parents and grandparents. Some choose to speak openly about their situation, authoring books or engaging in public discussions. Others grapple with whether to retain their family names, have children, live in Germany, or embrace their German heritage.
The film also includes poignant moments, such as visits to Auschwitz, conversations with relatives, and school visits where they discuss their personal and family histories. Each descendant’s journey is unique, reflecting a range of coping mechanisms and solutions.
Hitler’s Children sheds light on the complex relationship between the perpetrators’ descendants and the victims of the Holocaust. It forces us to confront the enduring impact of history on subsequent generations and the moral dilemmas they face.
Released in 2011, the documentary garnered critical acclaim and has been screened at various international film festivals. It provides a haunting glimpse into the lives of those forever marked by their infamous lineage.
