Claes Bang Portrays Himmler's Masseur in 'I Is Another'

Danish actor Claes Bang portrays Felix Kersten, the personal physical therapist to Nazi SS leader Heinrich Himmler, in the film "I Is Another." The film, which premiered at the Locarno Film Festival, is directed by Felix Randau and is based on the true story of Kersten. Kersten, who died in 1960, asserted that his unique position allowed him to influence Himmler and, consequently, save numerous lives during World War II. However, the veracity of these claims has been a subject of historical debate and skepticism among many.

Bang, known for his role as John Paul in the popular Apple TV+ series "Bad Sisters," discussed his character in "I Is Another" during a press conference. He reflected on the complexity of playing Kersten, a figure whose actions, while potentially life-saving for some, were intertwined with the atrocities of the Nazi regime. Bang noted that while his character in "Bad Sisters" might be considered one of his "worst characters" due to the narrative context, the moral ambiguity of Kersten presents a different kind of challenge. The film delves into the psychological dynamics between Kersten and Himmler, exploring how a personal relationship could exist within the brutal framework of Nazi Germany.

"I Is Another" aims to shed light on the controversial figure of Felix Kersten and his alleged role in mitigating some of the Nazi regime's worst excesses. Kersten's memoir, "The Kersten Memoirs," published posthumously, details his therapeutic sessions with Himmler and his attempts to leverage this access for humanitarian purposes. Historians have often questioned the extent of Kersten's influence and the motivations behind his actions, with some suggesting that his accounts may have been exaggerated to enhance his own historical standing. The film's narrative likely navigates these historical discrepancies, presenting a dramatized account of Kersten's life and his controversial relationship with one of history's most reviled figures.

Claes Bang's portrayal of Kersten is central to the film's exploration of moral compromise and the capacity for individuals to operate within oppressive systems. The film's premiere at the Locarno Film Festival places it within a significant international cinematic context, offering audiences a chance to engage with a lesser-known but historically charged narrative. The performance by Bang is expected to be a key element in conveying the psychological intricacies of a man who served a Nazi leader while claiming to be a force for good. The film's success will likely depend on its ability to balance historical inquiry with compelling storytelling, addressing the difficult questions surrounding Kersten's legacy and the nature of his alleged humanitarian efforts.