Ordinary Fascism (Triumph Over Violence) is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary film directed by Russian filmmaker Mikhail Romm in 1965. The film explores the rise of fascism in Europe and its impact on the world by examining the roots of Nazi Germany and the atrocities committed during World War II. The film draws heavily on archival footage, photographs, and interviews with survivors and witnesses of the war.
The film begins with a quote from the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, "Whoever fights monsters should see to it that in the process he does not become a monster." The quote sets the tone for the film, which is a warning against the lure of fascism and its potential to create monsters out of ordinary people.
The film is divided into nine parts, each exploring a different aspect of fascism and its impact on society. The first part of the film explores the roots of Nazism and the cult of personality surrounding Adolf Hitler. Romm uses archival footage of Hitler's speeches and rallies to show how he mesmerized crowds with his message of national pride, racial superiority, and hatred of the perceived enemy.
The second part of the film looks at the role of propaganda in promoting fascism. Romm shows how the Nazis used propaganda to manipulate public opinion, justify their actions, and demonize Jews and other minority groups. The film also explores the role of cinema in the Nazi propaganda machine, with Romm highlighting the work of filmmaker Leni Riefenstahl and her glorification of Nazi ideology.
The third part of the film examines the concentration camps and the horrors committed within their walls. Romm uses archival footage and interviews with survivors to show the brutal reality of life inside the camps, with scenes of starvation, disease, and torture.
The fourth part of the film focuses on the Nuremberg Trials and the attempt to hold the Nazis accountable for their crimes. Romm shows how the trials were a landmark moment in the history of international law and how they helped to establish the concept of crimes against humanity.
The fifth part of the film explores the aftermath of World War II and the rebuilding of Europe. Romm shows how the devastation of the war led to the rise of new political ideologies and the emergence of the Cold War.
The sixth part of the film looks at the civil rights movement in the United States and the struggle for racial equality. Romm uses footage from the Montgomery Bus Boycott and other key moments in the movement to show how ordinary people can fight against injustice and oppression.
The seventh part of the film examines the rise of nationalism in Europe in the 1960s and the potential danger of fascism returning. Romm uses current events to show how the lessons of the past can be applied to the present.
The eighth part of the film explores the role of art and culture in promoting peace and understanding between nations. Romm shows how music, poetry, and dance can create a common language that transcends national boundaries.
The final part of the film is a tribute to Marlene Dietrich, who delivers a moving monologue on the dangers of fascism and the importance of speaking out against injustice. Dietrich's words serve as a powerful reminder of the responsibility that we all have to resist tyranny and uphold the values of democracy and human rights.
In conclusion, Ordinary Fascism (Triumph Over Violence) is a powerful and timely reminder of the dangers of fascism and the importance of staying vigilant against its return. Through its examination of the roots and impact of Nazism and its exploration of the aftermath of World War II, the film offers a sobering and thought-provoking commentary on the human cost of political extremism. The film's message is as relevant today as it was when it was first released in 1965 and serves as a call to action for all those who value freedom, justice, and human dignity.
