Film Lens
Black Box BRD is a German documentary directed by Andres Veiel that examines West German politics during the 1970s and 1980s, focusing on the Red Army Faction (RAF) and its impact on society. The film centers on the assassination of Alfred Herrhausen, a Deutsche Bank chairman, in 1989, and the subsequent events surrounding Wolfgang Grams, a suspected RAF member who died by suicide in 1993 while being pursued by police. Through interviews with relatives, friends, and colleagues of both men, the film presents a nuanced view of the political climate and personal stories intertwined with these significant events.
The documentary was released in Germany in May 2001 and re-released in September 2002. It received critical acclaim, winning the 2002 German Film Award for Best Documentary Film and the 2001 European Film Award. The film was also shown in the United States on PBS under the title Black Box Germany, further expanding its reach and audience engagement with this turbulent period in German history.
Why Watch
- •Meet Alfred Herrhausen, a key figure in German banking.
- •Follow the story of Wolfgang Grams and the RAF.
- •See firsthand accounts from people close to both men.
Did You Know
•Alfred Herrhausen was assassinated in 1989.
•Wolfgang Grams shot himself in 1993 while being chased by police.
•The film won the 2002 German Film Award for Best Documentary Film.
•Black Box BRD was released in Germany in May 2001.
Perfect For
German political historyTerrorism studiesBanking and finance