Downfall

Wednesday, July 7, 2009, we watched Downfall (2004), and ate grilled Bratwurst and Hot German Potato Salad.

Downfall is the story of Adolf Hitler's last few weeks of life, in Berlin at the end of World War II in the European theater. It is told through the eyes of his secretary, Fraulein Junge and is very well made, and very authentic as far as actual uniforms and weaponry.

Hitler's cold-blooded disdain for anyone not on his side was hard to stomach. He says, "Life never forgives weakness . . . Compassion is a betrayal of nature". He and Eva Braun are married mere days before the fall of Germany and everyone gathered in the bunker sits around talking through how they will kill themselves when the Russians arrive. Very unsettling.

The balance of the soldiers are forbidden to surrender, and of course Hitler and his wife kill themselves and have their bodies burned so that their bodies will not be put on display. Haunting and intense.

Dinner was hearty--and spicy! Lindsey and I had jalapeño cheddar bratwursts and Eric had a plain bratwurst, all from Martin's at the Terminal Market. They just can't make a bad sausage. The hot potato salad was delicious, smothered in sweet and sour bacon dressing.

In attendance: Lindsey, Eric, Barb
Ratings: Dinner = 3.875, Movie = 3.75