Dr. Joseph Goebbels, the infamous Nazi politician and propagandist, was one of the most enigmatic figures of the Third Reich. For years, scholars and historians have tried to piece together the puzzle of his life, but only recently have we gained a new insight into his personality and beliefs through the publication of his diaries.
The documentary “Dr. Goebbels Speaks” takes advantage of this new resource to provide a unique and fascinating look into the life of this notorious figure. Through a combination of archival footage, interviews with historians, and readings of Goebbels’ own words, the documentary paints a complex portrait of a man who was both charismatic and twisted, brilliant and delusional.
The film begins with an overview of Goebbels’ early life, including his failed attempts at writing novels and plays before he joined the Nazi party in 1924. From there, it delves into his rise to power within the party, culminating in his appointment as Minister of Propaganda in 1933. Through his diaries, we gain a better understanding of his role in shaping public opinion and manipulating the media to further the Nazi cause.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the documentary is the way it explores Goebbels’ personal life. We see him as a devoted husband and father, but also as a man with a dark side, prone to jealousy and cruelty. His infatuation with actress Lida Baarova is also explored, and we learn how this relationship ultimately led to his downfall.
The documentary doesn’t shy away from the atrocities committed by the Nazi regime, and we see how Goebbels played a key role in implementing policies of persecution and genocide. The film makes clear that while Goebbels may have been a skilled propagandist, he was also a deeply disturbed individual whose beliefs were based on hate and fear.