“Nuremberg” is an excellent courtroom drama by way of psychological thriller and historical biopic. In the wake of World War II and the Allies’ victory, a group of disparate lawyers, officers and medical personnel must first process, then hold individuals to account, for atrocities committed by the Nazis before their downfall in early 1945.

The highest ranking among them, Hermann Goring, here played by the always watchable Russell Crowe, admits his position in the party and adherence to the theories of the Nazi regime. In practice, however, he denies any and all knowledge of the Concentration Camps true purpose and their role in The Final Solution (Genocide of the Jewish race and in fact anyone deemed to be inferior).

It is then up to United States Supreme Court Justice (Michael Shannon) along with his British counterpart, Sir David Maxwell Fyfe (Richard E Grant) to hold the remaining Nazis to account and put them on trial for Crimes Against Humanity. Apparently the first time in our history this had been attempted. Medical experts, including US Army Psychiatrist Douglas Kelley (Rami Malek) are then drafted in to assess the state of mind and culpability of the former leaders of Germany. What follows is an exploration of responsibility, accountability, propaganda and a depressing view of what people are prepared to do in the name of an Ideal.

That’s not to say Nuremberg isn’t compelling viewing, it absolutely is. The cat and mouse game, with constantly shifting dynamics, between Dr Kelley, his Navy superiors, Goring, his family and the members of the international court are worth the price of admission alone. Add to that yet another masterful performance from Russell Crowe as the caged but still dangerous Nazi along with excellent turns from John Slattery, Lydia Peckham, Colin Hanks and Wrenn Schmidt make for a powerful and compelling drama. The sacrifice and cost to those who have engage with monsters is made abundantly clear, and the clear message that only by understanding evil can we ever hope to defeat it is a hopeful note amongst the sobering tone of the movie

Nuremberg is available now at selected cinemas and on general release for home streaming on Sky.