Dissident Russian filmmaker Kirill Serebrennikov is set to tackle a provocative and controversial subject with his latest project: a biopic on the notorious Nazi ‘Angel of Death,’ Josef Mengele. The film will explore the complex psychology behind Mengele’s actions as a physician in Auschwitz, where he conducted cruel experiments on prisoners and became infamous for his inhumane practices. Serebrennikov’s work seeks to provide a deeper understanding of the motivations and psyche of a man who evaded justice for decades after World War II.
The film’s focus on Mengele’s psychological makeup and his escape to South America adds a layer of intrigue, as the director aims to illuminate the factors that enabled such a figure to slip through the cracks of international justice. As a dissident filmmaker, Serebrennikov’s approach to this sensitive topic is likely to stir controversy, particularly given the historical and ethical implications of portraying a figure responsible for mass atrocities. The biopic promises to spark debates about historical accountability, the nature of evil, and the complexities of human behavior under extreme conditions.