Selling Hitler

Selling Hitler is a deliciously riveting drama series from Acorn Media and first broadcasted in 1991. It is a star-studded ensemble cast led by renowned actor Jonathan Pryce, who bestows an outstanding performance that alone is worth the watch.

Engrossing, thrilling, and oozing with suspense, Selling Hitler explores the themes of forgery and greed against the backdrop of Hitler's diaries scandal. The story centers around Jonathan Pryce's character, Gerd Heidemann, a journalist who becomes entangled with a notorious tale of forgery and deception.

Set in the early 1980s, Heidemann, fascinated by the Third Reich and its artifacts, is introduced to an incredible discovery – a series of diaries alleged to be from Adolf Hitler himself. The diary entries promise an intimate look into the mind of the most reviled man in history and can be a historical sensation. Sensing the potential for career advancement and historical renown, he finds himself drawn into a convoluted plot that could either elevate him to unimaginable heights or mark his professional downfall.

The series delves deep into Heidemann's core, exploring his ambitions, fears, and desperation while being skillfully manipulated. The supposed discovery of Hitler's diaries promises to reshape historical understanding, potentially changing worldwide perceptions of Hitler, the Nazi regime, and World War II. The diaries' impact is not lost on Heidemann, and he goes to great lengths to substantiate their authenticity, setting in motion a chain of events steeped in deception, desire, and desperation.

Jonathan Pryce masterfully embodies Heidemann's desperation and obsession, his desire for professional acclaim, and his willingness to risk it all in a pursuit that threatens to eclipse his entire existence. He manages to convey the complexity of his character eloquently; the viewer can practically feel his enthusiasm, anxiety, and slowly growing desperation. He finds himself woven into a contentious web, navigating a path fraught with danger, doubt, and disillusionment, trying to separate fact from an ever-growing body of fiction.

The episodes are skilfully crafted, with each one adding a new layer to the story, propelling the narrative forward, and deepening the intrigue. Supporting roles are equally formidable, contributing to the narrative's richness and keeping viewers hooked. Notable among these are Alexei Sayle, who plays the forger Konrad Kujau, and Tom Baker, who plays Manfred Fischer, Heidemann's boss at Stern Magazine.

Sold on the basis of stark authenticity, the diaries cause an international frenzy, and the eager frenzy to scoop this story of the century forms the core of the narrative. The thrill is heightened by various media houses' rampant desperation, the promise of fame and fortune, and the interplay of guilt and hope.

The riveting drama negotiates ethical minefields, questioning journalistic integrity and raising concerns about the lengths people are willing to go to capture a piece of history, even if it is potentially deceitful. It provides an intense exploration of human motivation, deception, and the pursuit of truth in the murky waters of forgery and historical revisionism.

Director Alastair Reid masterfully captures the mounting tension, presenting viewers with a story that’s both nail-biting and thought-provoking. Each episode builds masterfully on the last, turning screws and ratcheting up the tension as the far-reaching implications of the events unfold. The series is impeccably scripted, with complex characters, emotional depth, and a high-stakes storyline that delivers riveting performances, particularly from Jonathan Pryce.

The cinematography and production design do a sterling job of recreating 1980s Hamburg, forming a rich, atmospheric backdrop to the unfolding drama. The well-researched script, the intense performances, and the intriguing premise combine to make Selling Hitler a must-watch series for anyone interested in compelling drama, historical intrigue, or simply the underbelly of human nature—ambition, greed, and desire.

Selling Hitler is a powerful commentary on deception, power, and ambition. It spins a tantalizing tale revealing the relentless quest for power and fame through a historical incident that, till date, remains one of the most audacious frauds of the 20th century. This gripping drama from Acorn Media provides more than just entertainment; it serves as a stark reminder of the fine line between ambition and desperation. A true classic that still resonates today, and will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.