Log in
Poland 1939: When German Soldiers Became War Criminals

Poland 1939: When German Soldiers Became War Criminals

2019 · 52 min · ★ 8.0 · Documentary, Animation, History

September 1st, 1939. Nazi Germany invades Poland. The campaign is fast, cruel and ruthless. In these circumstances, how is it that ordinary German soldiers suddenly became vicious killers, terrorizing the local population? Did everyone turn into something worse than wild animals? The true story of the first World War II offensive that marks in the history of infamy the beginning of a carnage and a historical tragedy.

Directed by Alexander Hogh · Written by Jean-Christoph Caron

Your Rating

Cast

Make it a double feature

3h 27m together

Poland 1939: When German Soldiers Became War Criminals

Downfall

A close match in mood and era.

More from Alexander HoghSee all →

Germanic TribesGermanic Tribes · 2007
Germanic Tribes
★ 7.02007
SeriesDocumentary
Traumschiffe des Sozialismus - Kreuzfahrten in der DDRTraumschiffe des Sozialismus - Kreuzfahrten in der DDR · 2023
Traumschiffe des Sozialismus - Kreuzfahrten in der DDR
★ 6.82023
MovieDocumentaryHistory
When luxury invited itself to the paradise of socialism... For three decades, East Germany rewarded its exemplary citizens by putting them on a boat.
Die Rettung PalmyrasDie Rettung Palmyras · 2017
Die Rettung Palmyras
2017
Movie
Secrets of the Taj MahalSecrets of the Taj Mahal · 2010
Secrets of the Taj Mahal
2010
MovieDocumentary
The Taj Mahal: Symbol of India, architectural jewel, and monument to a grand passion. Built in the 17th century by the Great Mogul Shah Jahan in honor of Mumtaz Mahal, the love of his life. Before she died, legend says, Mumtaz Mahal made a wish for a mausoleum, more sublime than any the world had seen. Built on the banks of the Yamuna River in Agra, it is said to have required over 20,000 workers including the best craftsmen of the Empire. Millions of bricks were baked on site only to disappear forever under flawless white marble. A heavenly memorial to the Queen of the World, or as a poet described it: "A teardrop on the cheek of time". A love poem set in stone and the most perfect building in the world.
Murder in the House of MediciMurder in the House of Medici · 2013
Murder in the House of Medici
2013
SeriesDocumentary
It investigates the Medici family’s deaths through forensic and historical research in Florence.

More Like This

Is Paris Burning?Is Paris Burning? · 1966
Is Paris Burning?
★ 7.21966
MovieWarDrama
Near the end of World War II, General Dietrich von Choltitz receives orders to burn down Paris if it becomes clear the Allies are going to invade, or if he's unable to maintain control of the city. After much contemplation, Choltitz ignores orders, enraging the Germans and giving hope to various resistance factions that the city will be liberated. Choltitz, alongside Swedish diplomat Raoul Nordling, helps a leader organise his forces.
The Garden of the Finzi-ContinisThe Garden of the Finzi-Continis · 1970
The Garden of the Finzi-Continis
★ 7.01970
MovieDramaHistory
In 1930s Italy, a wealthy Jewish family tries to maintain their privileged lifestyle, hosting friends for tennis and parties at their villa. As anti-Semitism intensifies under Fascism, they must ultimately face the horrors of the Holocaust.
SeabiscuitSeabiscuit · 2003
Seabiscuit
★ 7.12003
MovieDramaHistory
True story of the undersized Depression-era racehorse whose victories lifted not only the spirits of the team behind it but also those of their nation.
The Killing FieldsThe Killing Fields · 1984
The Killing Fields
★ 7.51984
MovieDramaHistory
New York Times reporter Sydney Schanberg is on assignment covering the Cambodian Civil War, with the help of local interpreter Dith Pran and American photojournalist Al Rockoff. When the U.S. Army pulls out amid escalating violence, Schanberg makes exit arrangements for Pran and his family. Pran, however, tells Schanberg he intends to stay in Cambodia to help cover the unfolding story — a decision he may regret as the Khmer Rouge rebels move in.
DownfallDownfall · 2004
Downfall
★ 7.92004
MovieDramaHistory
In April of 1945, Germany stands at the brink of defeat with the Russian Army closing in from the east and the Allied Expeditionary Force attacking from the west. In Berlin, capital of the Third Reich, Adolf Hitler proclaims that Germany will still achieve victory and orders his generals and advisers to fight to the last man. When the end finally does come, and Hitler lies dead by his own hand, what is left of his military must find a way to end the killing that is the Battle of Berlin, and lay down their arms in surrender.
The Tin DrumThe Tin Drum · 1979
The Tin Drum
★ 7.01979
MovieDramaHistory
In 1924, Oskar Matzerath is born in the Free City of Danzig. At age three, he falls down a flight of stairs and stops growing. In 1939, World War II breaks out.
Ben-HurBen-Hur · 1959
Ben-Hur
★ 7.91959
MovieHistoryDrama
In ancient Judea, a Jewish aristocrat opposing Roman occupation of his homeland reunites with his childhood friend, now a Roman commander — setting in motion a saga of betrayal, adventure, tragedy, revenge, and faith.
GandhiGandhi · 1982
Gandhi
★ 7.61982
MovieDramaHistory
In the early years of the 20th century, Mohandas K. Gandhi, a British-trained lawyer, forsakes all worldly possessions to take up the cause of Indian independence. Faced with armed resistance from the British government, Gandhi adopts a policy of 'passive resistance', endeavouring to win freedom for his people without resorting to bloodshed.
Pearl HarborPearl Harbor · 2001
Pearl Harbor
★ 6.92001
MovieWarHistory
The lifelong friendship between Rafe McCawley and Danny Walker is put to the ultimate test when the two ace fighter pilots become entangled in a love triangle with beautiful Naval nurse Evelyn Johnson. But the rivalry between the friends-turned-foes is immediately put on hold when they find themselves at the center of Japan's devastating attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941.

Rate this film

Your ratings make Midnight smarter