Denial (2016) Movie Review – A Riveting Legal Drama Based on True Events
Denial (2016) is a powerful and thought-provoking legal drama that brings to life the true story of historian Deborah E. Lipstadt’s legal battle against Holocaust denier David Irving. Directed by Mick Jackson and based on Lipstadt’s book History on Trial: My Day in Court with a Holocaust Denier, the film offers a compelling look at the fight to preserve historical truth in the face of denial and distortion. Featuring strong performances and a tightly written script, Denial stands as a testament to the importance of historical accuracy and the dangers of revisionism.
Plot Summary: A Battle for Historical Truth
Denial centers on the 1996 libel lawsuit filed by British author David Irving (Timothy Spall) against American historian Deborah Lipstadt (Rachel Weisz). Lipstadt, a professor of Jewish history, accused Irving of being a Holocaust denier in her 1993 book Denying the Holocaust. Irving, known for his controversial views and revisionist history, sued Lipstadt and her publisher, Penguin Books, for libel in the UK, where the burden of proof lies with the defendant.
The film chronicles the intense legal battle that follows, focusing on Lipstadt’s defense team, led by solicitor Anthony Julius (Andrew Scott) and barrister Richard Rampton (Tom Wilkinson). They must prove that Irving knowingly falsified historical facts to support his denial of the Holocaust. The trial, which takes place in London, becomes a pivotal moment in the fight against Holocaust denial, with the stakes reaching far beyond the courtroom.
Performances: A Stellar Cast Brings the Story to Life
The cast of Denial delivers exceptional performances that anchor the film’s emotional and intellectual weight. Rachel Weisz shines as Deborah Lipstadt, portraying her with a mix of determination, frustration, and moral conviction. Weisz effectively conveys Lipstadt’s passion for truth and justice, as well as her struggle to navigate the complexities of the British legal system.
Timothy Spall delivers a chilling performance as David Irving, capturing the man’s arrogance, cunning, and dangerous charisma. Spall’s portrayal of Irving is both repulsive and compelling, making it clear why Irving was such a formidable opponent in the courtroom.
Tom Wilkinson’s portrayal of Richard Rampton is another highlight of the film. As the barrister tasked with cross-examining Irving and proving his deliberate distortion of history, Wilkinson brings a quiet intensity to the role. His scenes in the courtroom are some of the most riveting in the film, as Rampton methodically dismantles Irving’s arguments.
Andrew Scott, known for his role as Moriarty in Sherlock, provides a strong supporting performance as Anthony Julius, the solicitor who initially takes on Lipstadt’s case. His portrayal of Julius is sharp and nuanced, showing the character’s strategic brilliance and commitment to the cause.
Direction and Screenplay: A Taut and Thought-Provoking Drama
Mick Jackson’s direction of Denial is measured and focused, allowing the film’s powerful story to unfold without unnecessary embellishment. Jackson wisely avoids melodrama, instead letting the weight of the historical and legal arguments carry the emotional impact. The film’s pacing is deliberate, reflecting the careful and meticulous nature of the legal proceedings it depicts.
The screenplay, written by David Hare, is sharp and insightful, effectively distilling complex legal and historical issues into a narrative that is both accessible and engaging. Hare’s script captures the nuances of the trial, from the legal strategies employed by Lipstadt’s team to the broader implications of the case for Holocaust remembrance and historical truth.
Cinematography and Production Design: Authenticity and Atmosphere
The cinematography by Haris Zambarloukos enhances the film’s tense atmosphere, using muted colors and tight framing to reflect the gravity of the situation. The courtroom scenes are particularly well-shot, with the camera often focusing on the faces of the characters, capturing their reactions and emotions as the trial unfolds.
The production design by Mark Geraghty is authentic and understated, effectively recreating the settings of 1990s London. The film’s attention to detail, from the costumes to the set design, adds to its overall sense of realism.
Themes: The Importance of Historical Truth
At its core, Denial is a film about the importance of truth in the face of denial and distortion. It explores the dangers of Holocaust denial, not just as a form of historical revisionism, but as a tool of hatred and bigotry. The film underscores the responsibility of historians and educators to preserve the truth and combat falsehoods, especially when those falsehoods are used to promote dangerous ideologies.
Denial also raises important questions about the nature of free speech and the limits of academic discourse. While the film supports the right to free expression, it also highlights the ethical responsibility to ensure that speech, particularly in historical contexts, is grounded in fact and truth.
Where to Watch Denial Online
As of 2024, Denial is available on several streaming platforms, making it accessible for those who wish to watch this compelling legal drama. Here are the options:
Streaming Services
- Netflix: Denial is available for streaming on Netflix, allowing subscribers to watch the film in high definition. The platform provides options for subtitles in various languages.
- Amazon Prime Video: The film is also available on Amazon Prime Video. Prime members can stream Denial in HD and download it for offline viewing.
- Hulu: Denial can be streamed on Hulu, either through a regular subscription or via additional packages. Hulu offers HD streaming and customizable subtitles.
Rental and Purchase Options
For viewers who prefer to rent or own Denial, several digital platforms offer these options:
- Apple iTunes: You can rent or purchase Denial on Apple iTunes, with options for HD and Ultra HD viewing. The platform supports viewing on all Apple devices.
- Google Play Movies & TV: Google Play offers the film for rental or purchase in various resolutions, suitable for different devices.
- Vudu: Vudu provides rental and purchase options for Denial, often with deals or bundles that include other historical dramas.
Conclusion: A Timely and Essential Film
Denial (2016) is a film that resonates deeply, particularly in an era where the truth is increasingly contested. It serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of historical accuracy and the dangers of allowing falsehoods to take root. With its strong performances, sharp direction, and thought-provoking themes, Denial is a film that not only informs but also inspires a commitment to truth and justice.
For those interested in history, law, or the defense of truth, Denial is an essential watch. Its availability on various streaming platforms and digital rental services makes it easy to access, ensuring that its important message reaches a wide audience.
