The Audio Long Read From the archive: Burying Leni Riefenstahl: one woman’s lifelong crusade against Hitler’s favourite film-maker
Jun 18, 2025
Discover the relentless pursuit of truth by a woman determined to expose Leni Riefenstahl's ties to Nazi propaganda. The discussion reveals the personal stakes behind a legal battle against glorifying Riefenstahl's legacy. Hear about hidden stories of Sinti and Roma, shedding light on their experiences during the Holocaust. The emotional toll of unraveling a controversial filmmaker's history is explored, underscoring the importance of confronting dark legacies and amplifying marginalized voices in Germany's narrative.
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The Landmark Riefenstahl Trial
- Nina Gladitz faced Leni Riefenstahl in court over allegations of exploiting Roma extras in her film "Tiefland."
- The trial exposed abuse, unpaid labor, and the grim fate of many extras, marking a pivotal battle in Gladitz's life.
Partial Court Vindication and Limits
- The court ruled Riefenstahl did exploit Roma extras and the camp was indeed a concentration camp.
- However, claims she promised to save them remained unproven, shaping the trial's mixed verdict.
Gladitz's Troubled Childhood Roots
- Nina Gladitz grew up with a cold mother and suspected her Nazi complicity as a child.
- Her fascinations with Riefenstahl intertwined deeply with her personal trauma and family history.