Hanussen (1988 film)

Hanussen is a 1988 biographical drama film directed by István Szabó. The film stars Klaus Maria Brandauer as Erik Jan Hanussen, a charismatic but morally ambiguous mentalist and alleged clairvoyant in 1930s Germany.

The film explores Hanussen's rise to fame and influence, his exploitation of public anxieties and superstitions, and his complex relationship with the emerging Nazi party. While initially using his purported abilities for entertainment and personal gain, Hanussen becomes entangled with Nazi leaders, including Adolf Hitler. The film portrays him as being simultaneously fascinated and repelled by the Nazi ideology, and ultimately contributing to its rise through manipulation and propaganda.

Hanussen delves into themes of power, manipulation, mass psychology, and the dangers of unchecked ambition. It suggests that Hanussen's own prophetic abilities, or perceived abilities, are intertwined with the tragic events leading up to World War II. The film offers a critical perspective on the socio-political climate of pre-war Germany, highlighting the susceptibility of the population to charismatic figures and extreme ideologies.

The film received mixed to positive reviews, with praise directed towards Brandauer's performance and Szabó's direction. It was nominated for the Golden Globe Award for Best Foreign Language Film.