Baader (film)

Baader is a 2002 German historical drama film directed by Christopher Roth. The film depicts the life and times of Andreas Baader, a key figure in the West German far-left militant group, the Red Army Faction (RAF). It aims to provide a portrait of Baader's personality and the socio-political context that led to the rise of the RAF.

The film is distinct from other portrayals of the Red Army Faction, such as "The Baader Meinhof Complex," in that it focuses more on Baader's individual psychology and the intellectual climate of the time, rather than solely on the group's violent actions. It explores the themes of rebellion, societal alienation, and the influence of philosophical and political ideologies on Baader's radicalization.

The film stars Frank Giering as Andreas Baader and portrays his relationships, motivations, and eventual descent into extremism. While it is a fictionalized account, it draws on historical sources and research to create a plausible narrative of Baader's life. It aims to offer a more nuanced and less sensationalized depiction of the man and the movement he helped to lead.