Russell Crowe’s “Nuremberg” Surpasses Box Office Milestone

A new chapter in World War II cinema has emerged as Nuremberg, starring Russell Crowe and Rami Malek, has surpassed the lifetime domestic gross of the acclaimed film Downfall. Released on November 7, 2025, Nuremberg has generated nearly $6 million within its first week, eclipsing Downfall’s domestic total of $5.5 million.

The film, directed by James Vanderbilt, serves as a spiritual successor to Downfall, which depicted Adolf Hitler’s final days in his Berlin bunker. While Downfall was nominated for an Oscar in the category now recognized as Best International Feature Film, it attracted controversy for its portrayal of Hitler, sparking debates about the humanization of historical figures. In contrast, Nuremberg begins its narrative where Downfall concludes, focusing on the aftermath of the war and the trials that followed.

Despite its strong domestic performance, Nuremberg faces challenges in achieving global success comparable to Downfall, which grossed nearly $95 million worldwide. The earlier film was primarily an international co-production in German, appealing to a vast audience outside the United States.

Critics have largely responded positively to Nuremberg, awarding it a score of 69% on Rotten Tomatoes. The critics’ consensus notes, “Driven by a commanding performance from Russell Crowe, Nuremberg is a handsomely crafted historical drama, but its measured pacing and emotional restraint keep it from fully realizing the complexity of its subject.” Audience reactions have been even more favorable, with a striking 95% approval rating from viewers on the same platform.

While Crowe portrays the notorious Nazi war criminal Hermann Göring, Malek takes on the role of the American psychiatrist assigned to evaluate him before the Nuremberg Trials. The film explores the psychological complexities of its characters, offering a fresh perspective on a pivotal moment in history.

Director James Vanderbilt has crafted a narrative that resonates with contemporary audiences, blending historical authenticity with dramatic storytelling. As Nuremberg continues to unfold in theaters, it remains to be seen how it will perform in the coming weeks, especially against the backdrop of its predecessor’s legacy.

Overall, Nuremberg’s entry into the box office highlights a renewed interest in World War II narratives, demonstrating that audiences remain captivated by stories that delve into the moral and ethical dilemmas of history. With its engaging performances and thoughtful direction, Nuremberg is positioned to spark discussions about the past’s implications for the present.