Denial

Name: Denial
Genre: Biography, Drama, History
Released: September 30, 2016
Duration: 109 min
Rating: 63

2016

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Generally favorable reviews based on 34 Critics

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USER SCORE

Generally favorable reviews based on 35 Ratings

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6.4

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6.4	User Score Generally favorable reviews based on 35 Ratings

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Denial

Movie Details & Credits

Bleecker Street Media | Release Date: September 30, 2016

Summary: Based on the acclaimed book History on Trial: My Day in Court with a Holocaust Denier, Denial recounts Deborah E. Lipstadt's (Rachel Weisz) legal battle for historical truth against David Irving (Timothy Spall), who accused her of libel when she declared him a Holocaust denier. In the English legal system, the burden of proof is on theBased on the acclaimed book History on Trial: My Day in Court with a Holocaust Denier, Denial recounts Deborah E. Lipstadt's (Rachel Weisz) legal battle for historical truth against David Irving (Timothy Spall), who accused her of libel when she declared him a Holocaust denier. In the English legal system, the burden of proof is on the accused, therefore it was up to Lipstadt and her legal team to prove the essential truth that the Holocaust occurred. [Bleecker Street]… Expand

Director: Mick Jackson

Genre(s): Biography, Drama, History

Rating: PG-13

Runtime: 109 min

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Critic Reviews

100

Observer - Rex Reed

Sep 28, 2016

Another illuminating performance by Rachel Weisz and a brilliant screenplay by the distinguished British playwright David Hare make Denial one of the most powerful and riveting courtroom dramas ever made. Read full review

San Francisco Chronicle - Mick LaSalle

Oct 6, 2016

Weisz’s conviction, passion and galvanizing outrage drive Denial. For a Jewish academic, this was no intellectual exercise, and Weisz lets us see it. Between the frames, Weisz likewise assures us that Denial is no routine movie for a Jewish actress. Read full review

ReelViews - James Berardinelli

Oct 14, 2016

The performances are universally strong - not that one would expect anything else considering the quality of the cast. Read full review

Austin Chronicle - Marc Savlov

Oct 12, 2016

Courtroom dramas can be tricky, tetchy things, but director Jackson, working from a script by David Hare (The Hours) keeps the suspense and moral indignation peaking high throughout Denial’s slightly overlong running time. Read full review

Boston Globe - Peter Keough

Oct 6, 2016

The film works adequately as a historical drama. Read full review

Empire - Olly Richards

Jan 23, 2017

A sturdy by-the-numbers legal drama that really belongs on the small screen. Read full review

New York Post - Farran Smith Nehme

Sep 29, 2016

The movie sneers at the journalists covering the trial, but for those of us who followed it at the time, the newspaper accounts were a lot more engrossing than this film. Read full review

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User Reviews

BHBarry

Oct 16, 2016

“Denial” is the true story of an American Holocaust scholar, Deborah E. Lipstadt, who was sued for libel by a Holocust denier as recounted in her book entitled “Trial: My Day in Court with a Holocaust Denier”. The screenplay for the film was written by David Hare based on Ms. Lipstadt’s“Denial” is the true story of an American Holocaust scholar, Deborah E. Lipstadt, who was sued for libel by a Holocust denier as recounted in her book entitled “Trial: My Day in Court with a Holocaust Denier”. The screenplay for the film was written by David Hare based on Ms. Lipstadt’s book. Mick Jackson directed the film which stars Rachel Weisz, Tom Wilkinson and Timothy Spatt. This is basically a courtroom drama played out in the London courts and gives the audience a clear understanding of the fundamentals of the British legal system and the roles the solicitor and barrister play. Yet this is not just another Holocaust story but a rather sensitive and personal insight into those who teach about this unfortunate event in world history as well as those who lived to tell about it. Ms. Weisz’ performance is extraordinary and she communicates her dedication to the role certainly in some part because of her own personal background and experience. As a lawyer I can recite a number of improbabilities and inaccuracies that take place in the courtroom scenes but one must remember that the screenplay is based on the perceptions of Ms. Lipstadt and I believe that, had there been more input from a barrister or solicitor in the making of the film, the noted inaccuracies would not have appeared. That being said, and seeing the film as a layman seeking a good entertainment experience, this film adequately attains that goal. Accordingly, I give the film an 8 with much of the credit going to Ms. Weisz who is largely responsible for its positive rating,.… Expand

3 of 5 users found this helpful32

LeZee

Feb 14, 2017

A courtroom drama about who's right and who's wrong!

There are many factors to consider, especially for a film like this. Yep, the film was based on the real courtroom event. The film is about two people to prove they're right on their book about the war crimes whether that took place orA courtroom drama about who's right and who's wrong!

There are many factors to consider, especially for a film like this. Yep, the film was based on the real courtroom event. The film is about two people to prove they're right on their book about the war crimes whether that took place or not. So all the episodes take place in a British high court with mention of Auschwitz concentration camp, particularly about its ruins than the events that happened in there. That means it's a great drama to learn about how these two fought in a lawsuit face-off, but there's nothing about the real event just like the film 'The Eichmann Show'. If you are not a Jew or a neo nazi or not even a European and North American, then this is an okayish film from the entertainment aspect, other than learning truth and history.

I really expected some real events, but we have already seen in many films about Auschwitz camp. So they kept this film as a modern day court trial than mixing up with those old crime. Great acting by all. Timothy Spall nailed it in his negative role. He was just a fine supporting actor, till I started to recognise him since his genius display in a biopic, 'Mr. Turner'. This is his one of the top performances. He could play Don Trump in his biopic, beside Rob Redford who's a bit old for that. Rachel Weisz was okay. Her role was not strong enough, despite she's in the main character. Because everyone around her took the honour to rise above hers. Be it Tom Wilkinson, who was surprisingly awesome.

So in my perspective the film was good, but not great. The courtroom events lacked strong hold with what a film needs and what the viewers wants with twists and turns in the argument. But I'm very happy being honest than modifying its story to make film commercial worthy. Though the film had some its own moments, in the end it was not enough. Particularly how it concludes and to think why this trial even took place makes no sense at all. Seems more a joke than anything serious, just because of someone being crazily challenging and the other one responding to it. Anyway, it's still largely a sensitive matter and my view is just as an outsider. But the film is worth a watch, if you are not expecting a bigger picture after reading its synopsis.

7/10… Expand

0 of 1 users found this helpful01

imthenoob

Jun 17, 2017

Very well acted for sure but what I love about this film is the accuracy. For the dialogue during the court room scenes, They use the actual recorded testimony from the trial and I felt that made this film all the better. They were truly spoken words from a sickening court case and they wereVery well acted for sure but what I love about this film is the accuracy. For the dialogue during the court room scenes, They use the actual recorded testimony from the trial and I felt that made this film all the better. They were truly spoken words from a sickening court case and they were among the best scenes of the film. And the filming at Auschwitz was very haunting.

My only complaint was that despite being the lead role Weisz didn't have much dialogue or screen time. And she felt really out of character compared to everyone else on the cast. I probably would have re-cast the role and found someone to better fit the film.… Expand

0 of 2 users found this helpful02

Spangle

Oct 16, 2016

A film told impassionately and emotionally, Denial from director Mick Jackson is an important film exposing "historian" David Irving for the liar, anti-semite, xenophobe, and sexist, that he truly is and expresses in his writing. Though the ending may be obvious, the final verdict of theA film told impassionately and emotionally, Denial from director Mick Jackson is an important film exposing "historian" David Irving for the liar, anti-semite, xenophobe, and sexist, that he truly is and expresses in his writing. Though the ending may be obvious, the final verdict of the film is not without tension and power, as the film still manages to create the proper impact of the moment. Yet, Denial is held back from being better for being very much typical in regards to both Holocaust and courtroom films. Operating within the confines of its true story, Denial is relegated to filling in the gaps between its courtroom scenes with prototypical courtroom drama interactions, as well as classic moments from better Holocaust movies. My tears and emotion over the Holocaust were present for sure, but the film never really built on anything that past films have not already dissected.

Yet, in spite of its typical nature, Denial still feels powerful. A court case about proving the Holocaust and honoring the deceased and the survivors, it is a film with inherent emotional prowess. Mick Jackson brings this element to life in the film and really showcases just how impactful this case is, regardless of which way the verdict goes. Should the judge rule in favor of Irving (Timothy Spall) or in favor of Deborah Lipstadt (Rachel Weisz), the ramifications of the case will be far reaching and could, honestly, change the past. It is through the importance and significance that the film finds its success. Riding on its impassioned telling of the story, Denial rises above its cliches and becomes a thoroughly riveting and moving experience.

This element is most certainly bolstered by the acting. Rachel Weisz is limited in her lead role, yet still brings the good with an emotional performance. Her overt passion shines through and ignites the same passion within the viewer. Her lawyer, Richard Rampton (Tom Wilkinson), has the same passion, yet far more subtle. It is only later in the film that we realize how deeply this case has impacted him to a similar degree as Lipstadt. Wilkinson does a brilliant job bringing this element to life with a typically great performance. As Irving, Timothy Spall is tremendous. He brings Irving and everything about him to the viewer with the end result that you despise him. Spall, though in a vile role, is brilliant. From his non-verbals to the nonchalant delivery of incendiary commentary.

While its cliches stand as its biggest faults, Denial also does feature a decent amount of filler at times, as well as oddly chosen courtroom scenes. Though powerful, there is very little actual proving of the Holocaust and far name calling of Irving. He may be wrong, but it takes a few court scenes for the film to actually showcase his falsehoods. That said, the courtroom scenes are still powerful, but a little left of center initially before focusing in on the important moments.

Overall, Denial is passionate and filled with rage towards deniers. It is this powerful approach that elevates it above its cliches and filler to deliver a solid and thoroughly entertaining, yet poignant film with absolutely stellar performances.… Expand

1 of 3 users found this helpful12

GreatMartin

Oct 24, 2016

Most people don't expect to walk out of a movie smarter than they walked in but seeing "Denial" not only entertains but teaches the audiences. Most Americans don't really know about the British court system but the main difference is that in America in libel cases the defendant is innocentMost people don't expect to walk out of a movie smarter than they walked in but seeing "Denial" not only entertains but teaches the audiences. Most Americans don't really know about the British court system but the main difference is that in America in libel cases the defendant is innocent until proven guilty while in England the defendant is guilty until they can prove their innocence.
Deborah Lipstadt (Rachel Weisz) has written a just published book "Denying The Holocaust" portraying David Irving (Timothy Spall) as the holocaust denier he is and the latter claims she has ruined his career, cost him a loss of income and defamed him so sues her.
The "Denial" is based on a true story and the courtroom scenes are word for word from the actual trial records. Richard Rampton (Tom Wilkinson) defends her in court while Anthony Julius (Andrew Scott), who was Lady Diana's solicitor in her divorce, heads a team to prepare the case. Irving defends himself hoping to bring his denying the holocaust to more of the public and increasing his following while making his argument more valid. The outcome of the trial has a lot at stake on both sides and while some may go into the movie knowing the ending they will still get caught up in the trial.
It has been awhile since there has been a good trial movie and this fills that absence with both parties agreeing to the judge making the decision instead of the hearing being in front of a jury. His final decision is over a 300 page report and everyone in the audience where I was holding their breath and some even vocalizing at the decision.
From the opening scene, where Irving confronts Lipstadt, giving a lecture in a full hall, to the last scene in "Denial", the film holds your attention and the three leads Weisz, Wilkinson and Spall are standouts, especially the latter who as a despicable person may make you shake your head back and forth but will hold you interest. The supporting cast doesn't have a less than worthy player.
A film about the holocaust doesn't immediately bring laughter to mind but with Lipstadt, as a 'fish out of water', provides quite a few smiles and, in some cases outright laughter, as the differences in the ways of Americans and Brits, especially in the courtroom, come about naturally.
While I wasn't so emotionally involved as I thought I would be I was more intellectually involved than I usually am with a movie.
An aside: I have finally found someone who has written, and keeps, more diaries than I did/have and he makes my collection look like nothing!… Expand

1 of 2 users found this helpful11

TVJerry

Oct 21, 2016

Rachel Weisz plays a Holocaust scholar who's sued in British court by a prominent denier (Timothy Spall). While there is a somber, moving visit to Auchwitz, most of the narrative revolves around the legal wrangling. Although it's attempted, the film doesn't succeed in the emotionalRachel Weisz plays a Holocaust scholar who's sued in British court by a prominent denier (Timothy Spall). While there is a somber, moving visit to Auchwitz, most of the narrative revolves around the legal wrangling. Although it's attempted, the film doesn't succeed in the emotional connection that would have created a powerful experience. Instead, we watch relatively dry legal proceedings (it is England, after all). David Hare's screenplay manages to effectively hit the case's salient points and Weisz's performance is solid, but this is probably the most detached treatment of the Holocaust ever put on film.… Expand

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

Giulius

Oct 23, 2016

A disappointment. Sure, we know how it all turns out, but plenty of other dramatic films have managed to present true stories in a compelling way. Presenting Irving as a buffoon robs the film of its central conflict. And Weisz plays an overwrought role from the start, badly diluting theA disappointment. Sure, we know how it all turns out, but plenty of other dramatic films have managed to present true stories in a compelling way. Presenting Irving as a buffoon robs the film of its central conflict. And Weisz plays an overwrought role from the start, badly diluting the emotional impact of the defense team's visit to Auschwitz. Really, the lawyers' constant turmoil is distracting. So much effort is expended to create conflict that we are left to wonder how these people ever manage to make it to court on time.… Expand

2 of 2 users found this helpful20

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