Hitler's Greatest Fear: The Trial Against Degenerate Art

When art begins to pose a threat, who decides what will be saved?

In 1937, the Nazi regime declared war on modernity, declaring artists such as Picasso, Chagall, Van Gogh and Matisse “degenerate”. Their works were banned, destroyed. They were mocked at mock exhibitions, while art consistent with Aryan ideals was glorified by the state.

Set in the context of a major new exhibition at the Picasso Museum in Paris, the documentary examines this ideological assault, reaching out to more widely unknown footage, censored works of art, and the relationships of curators and survivors. The artists enrich the perspective with music, literature and architecture, showing how the Reich fought against all forms of creative opposition.

It is a moving and extremely timely reflection on repression, resistance and the constant struggle for freedom of creation.