Downfall (2004): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 2004, Downfall is a drama, war and history film directed by Oliver Hirschbiegel, running about 155 minutes. “April 1945, a nation awaits its... Downfall” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. In April of 1945, Germany stands at the brink of defeat with the Russian Army closing in from the east and the Allied Expeditionary Force attacking from the west. In Berlin, capital of the Third Reich, Adolf Hitler proclaims that Germany will still achieve victory and orders his generals and advisers to fight to the last man. When the end finally does come, and Hitler lies dead by his own hand, what is left of his military must find a way to end the killing that is the Battle of Berlin, and lay down their arms in surrender.

Who’s in it. Downfall stars Bruno Ganz as Adolf Hitler, Alexandra Maria Lara as Traudl Junge, Corinna Harfouch as Magda Goebbels and Ulrich Matthes as Joseph Goebbels, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 7.9/10, Downfall has been warmly received by audiences. It went on to earn $92.2M at the box office.

Where to watch. In US you can stream it on Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Prime Video with Ads and Shout! Factory Amazon Channel and rent or buy it from Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies and YouTube. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Downfall page.

If you liked it. Fans of Downfall tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.