In the grim days leading up to Germany’s defeat in World War II, challenging the Nazi regime was an act of extreme peril. Director Matt Whitaker’s new film, “Truth & Treason,” brings to the screen the extraordinary true account of a group of young individuals who dared to defy a poisonous ideology.
The film features Ewan Horrocks as Helmuth Hübener and Nye Occomore as Salomon Schwarz, depicted in suits and ties on a stone path, symbolizing their brave mission.
Following a common thread in films from the Christian-focused Angel Studios, this movie emphasizes the narrative’s inspirational core. We are introduced to Helmuth Hübener (played by Ewan Horrocks), a cheerful Latter-day Saint teenager, as he enjoys his carefree days with friends amidst Hamburg’s tree-lined streets. The stark reality of their era soon intrudes, signaled by the abrupt arrest of a Jewish comrade by the police, foreshadowing the loss of their innocence.
Driven by his convictions, Helmuth embarks on a clandestine postcard campaign. He uses a typewriter to craft fervent anti-Nazi messages, which he and his friends covertly distribute around town. Ironically, this very typewriter becomes a tool of his undoing, its distinct letter patterns offering crucial clues to a relentless Nazi officer determined to unmask the young propagandists.
While some aspects of the storytelling might feel familiar — such as a Nazi interrogator dramatically demanding “Get up!” after knocking his subject from a chair — the film delivers genuinely appalling and harrowing moments that underscore the real-life stakes. The story, despite its occasional predictable beats, is grounded in a terrifying reality.
Despite any minor narrative imperfections, “Truth & Treason” shines through its compelling performances. Rupert Evans delivers a particularly notable portrayal of Erwin Mussener, the Nazi officer whose demeanor shifts from bewildered to mildly sympathetic, and ultimately infuriated by the anti-Hitler teenagers. His powerful performance, along with Horrocks’s, ensures that this impactful film remains thoroughly engaging.
“Truth & Treason” is rated PG-13 for its thematic content and some violence. The film has a running time of 2 hours and is currently showing in theaters.