Nuremberg is a 2025 American historical drama directed and written by James Vanderbilt. The film is based on the non-fiction book The Nazi and the Psychiatrist by Jack El-Hai and stars Rami Malek, Russell Crowe, and Michael Shannon.
Set in the wake of World War II, the story follows American psychiatrist Dr. Douglas Kelley, who is tasked with evaluating the mental fitness of high-ranking Nazi leaders as they await trial for crimes against humanity.
The film zeroes in on Kelley’s intense psychological exchanges with Hermann Göring, Adolf Hitler’s closest advisor. Meanwhile, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Robert H. Jackson led the prosecution during the historic Nuremberg Trials.
Blending courtroom drama with deep psychological tension, Nuremberg explores themes of justice, guilt, trauma, and the human capacity for evil.
Nuremberg Age Rating
Nuremberg is rated PG-13 for violent content involving the Holocaust, strong disturbing images, suicide, some language, smoking, and brief drug content.
The disturbing historical content and mature themes may not be suitable for younger teens. Below is a spoiler-free breakdown of the movie’s content for parents:
Violence & Disturbing Content
While there is no graphic violence shown on screen, the film features intense discussions and visual references to Holocaust atrocities, including archival footage and unsettling photographs. Themes of mass murder, war crimes, and suicide are central to the narrative. A scene involving a character’s suicide may be upsetting for sensitive viewers. These moments are disturbing but handled with restraint and historical respect.
Language
There is occasional strong language, though it is not excessive. The dialogue is emotionally charged due to the legal and psychological intensity of the trials.
Mature Themes
The film tackles heavy subjects, including genocide, guilt, moral accountability, and the psychological aftermath of war. It explores the mental states of Nazi leaders and the emotional toll on those trying to bring them to justice. Some drug and alcohol use appears in context, along with period-accurate smoking.
Is Nuremberg Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: Not suitable. Despite the PG-13 rating, the themes and historical content may be too intense for pre-teens. The movie deals with real-world war crimes, human suffering, and death.
Ages 13–17: Recommended with guidance. Mature teens who are interested in history or social justice will find Nuremberg thought-provoking. However, due to the disturbing subject matter and emotional weight, parental guidance is strongly advised. This is a film that invites serious conversation about history, ethics, and justice.
What Parents Can Do
Watch Together: If your teen is interested, consider watching the film with them to help process the heavy topics it raises.
Discuss the History: Talk about the real events behind the film and how they shaped modern ideas of human rights and international law.
Provide Context: Help teens understand the impact of the Holocaust and the significance of the Nuremberg Trials in holding power accountable.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Nuremberg (2025)?
A: It is rated PG-13 for violent content involving the Holocaust, disturbing images, suicide, some language, smoking, and brief drug content.
Q: Is Nuremberg appropriate for teens?
A: Yes, for older teens (13+) with parental guidance. The film is educational but emotionally intense.
Q: Does the film show graphic violence?
A: No, but it includes disturbing historical imagery and references to real-life atrocities.
Q: Is there any sexual content or nudity?
A: No. The film does not contain any sexual content or nudity.
Q: Where can I watch Nuremberg?
A: It will be released in U.S. theaters on November 7, 2025, UK theaters on November 14, and on Sky Cinema in January 2026.