The film world is abuzz as Russell Crowe returns to the spotlight with Nuremberg, a gripping World War II courtroom drama that has quickly become one of the most talked-about films of the upcoming awards season. Directed by James Vanderbilt, the film stars Crowe alongside Rami Malek and Michael Shannon in a powerful exploration of justice, psychology, and the moral aftermath of war.

Set against the historical backdrop of the Nuremberg Trials, the movie follows psychiatrist Douglas Kelley, portrayed by Malek, as he evaluates high-ranking Nazi officials to determine their mental fitness for trial. Crowe delivers a commanding performance as Hermann Göring, one of history’s most infamous figures, in what many critics are calling his most nuanced role in years.

From Mixed Reviews to Critical Redemption

Upon its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), Nuremberg initially divided critics, earning a modest 45% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. However, as more reviews rolled in, the film staged an impressive comeback — rising to 67%, marking a rare 22-point surge that’s reignited awards buzz.

The film now stands tantalizingly close to earning the coveted Certified Fresh status, which requires a minimum 75% rating. Industry insiders suggest that such a milestone could dramatically elevate its awards prospects, particularly in the Academy Awards race.

Oscar Momentum Builds

Sony Pictures is reportedly mounting a vigorous campaign for Nuremberg across several major categories. Early whispers from Hollywood insiders indicate that Crowe is being positioned for a Best Lead Actor push, while Malek’s deeply psychological portrayal could earn him a Best Supporting Actor nod.

Critics have praised the film’s moral complexity and the chemistry between its leads, comparing its tone and tension to historical dramas like Judgment at Nuremberg and The Imitation Game. The strong uptick in reviews has also given Sony a renewed sense of confidence as the studio prepares its awards season rollout.

Strategic Global Expansion

Sony Pictures Classics has also secured distribution rights in India, opening access to one of the world’s largest cinema markets. Analysts predict this could enhance the film’s international footprint and commercial viability — a crucial factor during awards season. The move is being compared to how Sony leveraged international markets for The Father and Whiplash, both of which benefited from critical acclaim and strong box office synergy.

Meanwhile, other films once tipped for Oscar contention, like Dwayne Johnson’s The Smashing Machine, have seen their momentum wane amid disappointing box office returns — underscoring how critical reception and commercial performance often intersect in Hollywood’s awards calculus.

Behind the Scenes and Beyond

Nuremberg has been a long-gestating passion project for director James Vanderbilt, who co-wrote the screenplay with Jack El-Hai. The film was shepherded to completion by producers István Major, Richard Saperstein, William Sherak, Bradley J. Fischer, and Paul Neinstein — a team known for their meticulous storytelling and cinematic craftsmanship.

With a runtime of 148 minutes, Nuremberg is set for a worldwide theatrical release on November 7, 2025, under Sony Pictures. The film’s late-fall debut positions it strategically within the awards eligibility window, ensuring maximum visibility among Academy voters.

Interestingly, Crowe’s schedule remains packed. He is also set to appear in a Highlander reboot alongside Henry Cavill, directed by Chad Stahelski — though filming has been delayed following Cavill’s injury during pre-production. For now, however, all eyes remain fixed on Nuremberg, which appears poised to become one of the defining cinematic events of 2025.