Review: 'I Is Another' Explores Felix Kersten's Complex Life

The period drama 'I Is Another,' directed by German filmmaker Felix Randau, presents a psychological thriller centered on the largely forgotten figure of Felix Kersten. Kersten, a Dutch-Estonian masseur, held a unique and morally ambiguous position as Heinrich Himmler's personal therapist. The film, Randau's fourth feature, aims to provoke discussion on the nature of historical fact and the contemporary relevance of the malleability of truth. The narrative focuses on Kersten's complex relationship with Himmler, the head of the SS and a principal architect of the Holocaust, and explores how Kersten leveraged this connection to intervene in the fates of numerous individuals, reportedly saving thousands of lives. His actions, however, were intertwined with his proximity to one of history's most monstrous figures, raising profound ethical questions about complicity and the nature of heroism. The film highlights Kersten's own aspirations, including his nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize, a stark contrast to his association with the Nazi regime. This juxtaposition serves as a central theme, forcing viewers to confront the uncomfortable realities of how individuals navigated the treacherous landscape of Nazi Germany. The film's exploration of Kersten's life is described as a handsomely upholstered psychological thriller, suggesting a polished production that delves into the inner workings of its protagonist and his precarious situation. Randau's previous work has often explored complex historical and psychological themes, and 'I Is Another' appears to continue this trajectory. The film's contemporary resonance is noted, implying that the themes of truth, manipulation, and the construction of reality are particularly pertinent in the current socio-political climate. The review suggests that 'I Is Another' is likely to spark heated debate due to its subject matter and the nuanced portrayal of a figure who operated in the shadows of immense historical atrocity. The film’s examination of Kersten’s life is not just a biographical account but an inquiry into the very foundations of historical narrative and the subjective experience of truth. By focusing on Kersten, a man who was both a perpetrator's confidant and a rescuer, the film challenges simplistic moral categorizations and invites a deeper contemplation of human behavior under extreme duress. The review emphasizes the film's potential to be a significant talking point, underscoring its success in presenting a compelling and thought-provoking cinematic experience that grapples with profound ethical and historical complexities.