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John Halder (Viggo Mortensen) lives a rather dull life. As a college professor in German during the tumultuous 30s, he finds himself growing weary of his life. Not only does he teach, he also has the care of his two young children because of his wife’s mental illness. His elderly mother also lives with the family and requires much attention as well. John writes a book that extols euthanasia. He is very surprised when the leaders of the Nazi party begin to praise his writings. He loves the flattery and gifts that begin to come his way. But as he rises in fame, he finds some of his beliefs challenged and must decide where he will finally cast his lot. His life-long friend, Jewish psychoanalyst Maurice (Jason Isaacs) warns John that he will forever regret his choices if he compromises his conscience.
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