Is The Night of the Long Knives Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2020)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

In the evolving tapestry of History, Documentary cinema, the 2020 release of The Night of the Long Knives stands as a landmark endeavor that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into In June 1934, Hitler decided to eliminate the powerful leadership of the SA. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of History, Documentary are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "In June 1934, Hitler decided to eliminate the powerful leadership of the SA. With his pistol drawn, he entered the Hotel Hanselbauer in Bad Wiessee on June 30, where his friend Ernst Röhm and other SA functionaries were staying. The three-day murder operation within the SA's own ranks has gone down in history as the "Night of the Long Knives"."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. The performance by Céline Sallette is nothing short of transformative, providing an emotional anchor that tethers the film's more abstract concepts to a relatable human experience. Céline Sallette captures the nuance of the script with a performance that will likely define their career for years to come.

The direction by Gérard Puechmorel is marked by a bold and uncompromising hand. Technically, the film is a tour de force. The cinematography makes exceptional use of light and shadow, creating a visual language that mirrors the character's internal journey. The soundscape is equally impressive, with a score that is both haunting and celebratory, perfectly aligned with the thematic progression of the plot. The pacing, over its 89 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is The Night of the Long Knives truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of History, Documentary, then this is a mandatory viewing experience, a film that will haunt your thoughts long after you leave the theater.

The film's ability to transcend its genre labels is why it has earned its 8.3/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, The Night of the Long Knives explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2020 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Gérard Puechmorel respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, The Night of the Long Knives is a rare gem that rewards the audience's attention with a profound and lasting impact. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Céline Sallette or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, The Night of the Long Knives is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.