John Slattery: Lessons from 'Nuremberg' remain relevant in 2025

NEW YORK, Nov. 30 (UPI) -- John Slattery, known for his roles in Mad Men and Avengers, emphasizes that Nuremberg, a fact-based post-World War II legal drama, resonates deeply even in 2025. The film explores the pursuit of justice in the face of immense cruelty.

"How more relevant could this movie be? The timing is remarkable given current global events," Slattery, 63, shared in a recent Zoom interview. "Jamie Vanderbilts motivation to bring this story to the screen is clear. Despite years of effort to produce it, its arrival now has a striking, perhaps somber, significance."

The film, currently in theaters, is Vanderbilt's adaptation of Jack El-Hai's The Nazi and the Psychiatrist. It follows U.S. Chief Prosecutor Robert Jackson, portrayed by Michael Shannon, as he tries the remaining members of the Nazi regime responsible for the Holocaust. Rami Malek plays U.S. Army psychiatrist Douglas Kelley, tasked with evaluating whether Reichsmarschall Hermann Gring, played by Russell Crowe, is fit to stand trial.

Slattery portrays U.S. Army Colonel Burton C. Andrus, the commandant of Nuremberg Prison where Gring and other defendants were held. "I read the script, the book its based on, and then the book written by my character," Slattery recalled. "It became clear how vital the trial was to those involved, and the responsibility to execute it correctly and show the world the truth."

He noted that prosecutors had to separate personal emotions from their work to ensure the defendants were treated fairlya stark contrast to the treatment of the millions of Nazi victims, many of whom were Jewish. "It was a difficult assignment," Slattery admitted. "The challenge was to tell the story responsibly while keeping it engaging."

Slattery explained the process of shaping his character: "There was so much information about Andrus, I had to select what would best support the story. The film isnt about my character, but you aim to contribute meaningfully to the narrative while keeping the performance compelling. Collaborating with the director helped refine these choices."

He praised Vanderbilt, who has also written White House Down, Scream VI, and two Murder Mystery films, as a "fantastic collaborator" and "incredibly fun and humorous" presence on set. "I couldnt have asked for a better experience," Slattery added.

Contextual Relevance of "Nuremberg" in 2025

The timing of "Nuremberg," a post-World War II legal drama that explores the aftermath of the Holocaust, couldn't be more significant. As John Slattery, one of the film's key actors, noted, the movie resonates powerfully with current global events. The film’s release at this juncture serves as a reminder of the crucial importance of justice, human rights, and the ongoing relevance of these historical lessons. Given the growing political tensions and ethical debates worldwide, the film’s exploration of the Nuremberg Trials is as poignant as ever.

The narrative of "Nuremberg," adapted from Jack El-Hai’s "The Nazi and the Psychiatrist," highlights the complex pursuit of justice for war crimes. The focus on U.S. Chief Prosecutor Robert Jackson, portrayed by Michael Shannon, as he faces the daunting task of trying top Nazi officials, is a critical moment in history that is not just of historical importance but serves as a mirror to today's struggles with accountability and truth. Slattery's portrayal of Colonel Burton C. Andrus, responsible for overseeing the prisoners, adds another layer to this exploration of responsibility and the heavy burden of justice.

Slattery's comments underscore how the film is not only a historical recount but a call to reflect on the responsibilities of those in power and the consequences of unchecked violence. The film's release is a stark reminder that history, while distant, is not as removed as it might seem. The echoes of the past are evident in today's political and social climate, making "Nuremberg" an essential film for contemporary audiences.

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• John Slattery: 'Nuremberg' lessons still relevant in 2025