Many are well aware of Veit Harlan and the incredible effect films like Jew Süss had on the Third Reich. The infamous German propagandist’s films were mandatory viewing for S.S. troops during World War II, and even today much of his work is banned throughout the world. Harlan is long gone but he’s left behind far more than his notorious reputation; a vast bloodline remains. It’s one thing to point a finger at an evil historical figure, but the situation becomes relatable when examined by his relatives in Harlan: In The Shadow of Jew Suss, an interesting but only partially satisfying documentary about the filmmaker’s legacy.
The biggest film of Harlan’s career, Jew Süss was a monumental box office hit within the Third Reich and Harlan was presented the 1943 Universum Film Archiv award. But his fortunes changed drastically after the war ended and Harlan was charged with crimes against humanity for having supported the Nazi regime through his work. He was acquitted but was forever plagued by the effects of Jew Süss. Harlan passed away in 1964, but he left his surviving family members with the burden of his actions. Some have changed their names, a few keep the connection to Harlan to themselves and others attempt to justify his actions.
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