Hitler’s Big Fear. The trial against degenerate art
HITLER’S BIG FEAR. THE TRIAL AGAINST DEGENERATE ART by Simona Risi
When art becomes a threat, who decides what survives?

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“Essential for reflecting on the present” — MYmovies

 

 

In 1937, the Nazi regime launched its war on modernity, branding artists like Picasso, Chagall, Van Gogh, and Matisse as “degenerate.” Their works were banned, destroyed, or mocked in grotesque exhibitions, while Aryan ideals were glorified in state-sponsored shows.

 

Framed by a major new exhibition at the Musée Picasso in Paris, the documentary revisits this ideological assault through rare footage, suppressed artworks, and the voices of curators and survivors. It broadens its scope to music, literature, and architecture, exposing how the Reich targeted all forms of dissenting expression.

 

A timely meditation on repression, resistance, and the enduring fight for creative freedom.

Cast and credits

Created by Didi Gnocchi

Written by Sabina Fedeli, Didi Gnocchi, Arianna Marelli

Directed by Simona Risi

Executive Producer Gloria Bogi

Edited by Stefania Calatroni, Andrea Cappellini

Director of Photography Lorenzo Giromini

Produced by Didi Gnocchi for 3D Produzioni

Narrated by Claudia Catani

Technical info

Year: 2025

Runtime: 100′

Country: Italy

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