Jew Suss : Rise And Fall

Jew Suss: Rise And Fall is a 2010 German historical drama film, directed by Oskar Roehler and starring Tobias Moretti, Martina Gedeck, and Moritz Bleibtreu. The film tells the story of Joseph Suss Oppenheimer, a Jewish businessman who rose to power in 18th century Wurttemberg, Germany and ultimately met a tragic end.

The film is set in the mid-18th century and follows the life of Joseph Suss Oppenheimer, a Jewish man who becomes the personal banker to Duke Karl Alexander of Wurttemberg. Oppenheimer is a shrewd businessman who uses his wealth and influence to improve the lives of his fellow Jews in the ghetto. He builds a hospital, a school, and a synagogue, and speaks out against the hateful laws and restrictions placed upon Jews by the ruling class.

However, Oppenheimer's success and power begin to make him enemies. He becomes the target of the Duke's advisors, who believe that he is corrupt and using his influence to gain even more wealth and power. They launch a campaign to discredit him, spreading rumors and lies about his personal life and business dealings. Eventually, the Duke becomes convinced and orders Oppenheimer's arrest and trial.

The trial is a sham, with false evidence and accusations used to convict Oppenheimer of treason, theft, and conspiracy. He is sentenced to death and publicly executed. His wife and children are exiled from Wurttemberg and forced to flee to a different country.

The film is beautifully shot, with a rich and detailed depiction of life in 18th century Germany. The costumes and sets are stunning, transporting the viewer back in time to a world of decadence and excess. The performances are top-notch, with Tobias Moretti giving a nuanced and powerful portrayal of Joseph Suss Oppenheimer. Martina Gedeck is also excellent as his wife, a woman torn between loyalty to her husband and the need to protect her family.

One of the strengths of the film is its exploration of themes such as power, corruption, and anti-Semitism. It raises important questions about the role of Jews in German society and the ways in which they were persecuted and marginalized. It also critiques the abuses of power by those in the ruling class, and the ways in which they were able to manipulate the legal system for their own benefit.

Overall, Jew Suss: Rise And Fall is a powerful and thought-provoking film. It is a must-see for anyone interested in historical dramas, and for those who want to explore the complex and fraught history of Jewish-German relations.