In the shadows of history, a figure emerges, shrouded in myth and mystery: Felix Kersten, the masseur to the infamous Nazi SS chief, Heinrich Himmler. This intriguing character, once the subject of a potential blockbuster film by Steven Spielberg, has left a trail of legends and lies in his wake. German writer-director Felix Randau, in his latest cinematic endeavor, delves into the enigma of Kersten, unraveling the truth behind the man who claimed to have saved countless lives.
The story begins with a pitch that sparked Randau's curiosity: a miniseries about Kersten, a figure so captivating that it rivaled the iconic Oskar Schindler. But Randau's film, titled I Is Another, takes a different approach, presenting Kersten not as a hero but as a complex, flawed individual. Danish actor Claes Bang portrays him as a charismatic yet slippery character, challenging the notion of his heroism.
Kersten's postwar memoirs painted a picture of a savior, claiming his influence over Himmler had averted countless deaths. A biography by Joseph Kessel further solidified this myth, suggesting Kersten had single-handedly prevented the horrors of the gas chambers. However, Randau's research painted a different picture. He discovered Kersten's SS membership card, a revelation that contradicted his anti-Nazi claims. The director also uncovered forged documents, casting doubt on Kersten's credibility.
The question of Kersten's espionage activities for the Swedes remains unanswered. Despite extensive research, all relevant files remain classified, leaving Randau with more questions than answers. He concludes that while Kersten undoubtedly saved lives, the extent of his heroism is debatable. Randau attributes Kersten's actions to a desire for self-preservation and a weak self-image, describing him as a narcissist.
The film explores Kersten's journey, including a train ride to Oslo, where he hopes to receive the Nobel Prize. During this trip, he encounters a fictional investigative journalist, Hedda Wohmann, who suspects him of deception. Randau's research revealed a web of manipulation and mutual whitewashing, with Kersten fabricating letters and documents to enhance his image.
Kersten's relationship with Himmler is a central theme. The SS chief's indulgence and admiration for Kersten are well-documented, referring to him as a 'magic Buddha' who provided relief from his intestinal spasms. Kersten's charm and charisma, as well as his ability to connect with people, are noted, though his personal life remains a mystery, including rumors of a ménage à trois.
Casting and financing the film presented challenges. Randau's vision was to portray Himmler as a human being, despite his sadism and insanity. Some actors declined the role, fearing it would glorify evil. Martin Müller, an unsung TV actor, ultimately played Himmler, bringing a nuanced portrayal to the screen.
Randau's commentary on the rise of the far-right Alternative für Deutschland is thought-provoking. He sees parallels between the past and present, noting a decline in shared truths and the absence of the war-experienced generation. This generation's absence, he believes, contributes to the erosion of historical consensus.
Despite Kersten's flaws, Randau expresses sympathy for his character. He suggests that Kersten's actions, though driven by self-interest, had a positive impact. The director's exploration of Kersten's life raises questions about heroism, morality, and the complexities of human nature, leaving audiences with a thought-provoking cinematic experience.
