Skip to main content

Deep Dive: Human Remains (1998)

Film Lens

Human Remains
Human Remains is a 1998 documentary short film that examines the personal lives of five historical figures: Adolf Hitler, Benito Mussolini, Joseph Stalin, Francisco Franco, and Mao Zedong. The film presents intimate and mundane details about these leaders, illustrating the concept of the banality of evil. By focusing on their everyday lives, the film contrasts their personal habits with their roles in history, prompting viewers to reflect on the nature of evil in a familiar context. Directed by Jay Rosenblatt, the film runs for 30 minutes and took three years to complete, including eight months dedicated to research. The documentary features a cast that includes notable figures such as Vladimir Lenin and Eva Braun, emphasizing the interconnectedness of these historical personalities. The film has received critical acclaim, winning over 27 awards, including a Sundance Jury Award.

Why Watch

  • See the daily lives of Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini.
  • Find out how personal habits relate to historical evil.
  • Meet the leaders behind some of history's darkest moments.

Did You Know

The film took Jay Rosenblatt 3 years to complete.
Human Remains won over 27 awards, including a Sundance Jury Award.
The documentary features Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini among others.
The film has a runtime of 30 minutes.

Perfect For

History enthusiastsDocumentary fansPolitical science students