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Deep Dive: Hellstorm (2015)

Film Lens

Hellstorm
Hellstorm is a 2015 documentary directed by Kyle Hunt, based on Thomas Goodrich's book about Nazi Germany from 1944 to 1947. The film presents a narrative that portrays the Allied bombings of German cities like Hamburg, Dresden, and Swinemünde, emphasizing civilian casualties and depicting Nazi Germany as a victim of Allied war crimes. It argues that the Nazis created a prosperous society before the war and focuses on the aftermath of World War I and Germany's economic state leading into World War II. The documentary also covers specific historical events such as the sinking of the MV Wilhelm Gustloff and the treatment of surrendered German soldiers under General Dwight D. Eisenhower. The film has been criticized for its pro-Nazi perspective and for promoting antisemitic conspiracy theories regarding Jewish influence on Germany's suffering during the war.

Why Watch

  • See the portrayal of Allied bombings in Hamburg and Dresden.
  • Find out about the sinking of the MV Wilhelm Gustloff.
  • Meet the narrative that claims Nazi Germany was a victim.

Did You Know

The film claims that the Nazis made Germany a happy country before WWII.
It covers the sinking of the MV Wilhelm Gustloff, a notable wartime event.
The Southern Poverty Law Center criticized the film for its portrayal of Nazi Germany.

Perfect For

World War II historyNazi Germany studiesPropaganda analysis