This documentary, structured like a journey through locations associated with Holocaust atrocities, powerfully incorporates accounts from survivors, their relatives, and even former Nazis. It presents a thorough—and thoughtful—examination of the concentration camps’ true horrors. Claude Lanzmann refrains from using found footage, which surprisingly enhances the emotional impact of the now-quiet sites as described by those who experienced them before, during, and after these times of intense suffering. Having worked closely with people from Eastern Europe for many years, I can confirm that what resonated so strongly when this documentary was made in 1985 remains largely accurate today. There's still a significant degree of animosity toward Germans, but antisemitism persists as well. I spread out my viewing over several days, and I would suggest others do the same; it allows time for the testimonies to truly register, for your mind to process what you’ve witnessed and heard, and prevents the information from becoming overwhelming. The cinematography is exceptionally good—intimate when needed, expansive at other times. The interviews are detailed and searching, not intended to draw out graphic narratives (though they occasionally emerge), but rather to create a space where participants feel comfortable sharing their thoughts openly. It’s astonishing that someone could treat another person this way—perhaps more people should watch and pay attention to what transpired.

Source on TMDB