World War II dramas often focus on the battlefield or the horrors of the concentration camps, but fewer explore the tense, terrifying months leading up to the war. That's exactly where The Night of Broken Glass steps in, offering a harrowing look at one of the most infamous nights in pre-war Germany. With an exclusive first look, we see Clive Owen and Alex Pettyfer thrust into the chaos of Kristallnacht, as Jewish businesses are shattered and lives are upended.
A Story of Duty vs. Conscience
Owen, an Oscar nominee, plays Police Lieutenant Wilhelm Krützfeld, a man torn between his oath to the law and his own moral compass. His partner, Kai Lehmann (Pettyfer), is by his side as they investigate the murder of a Jewish doctor in Berlin in November 1938. But their case is complicated by the political firestorm around them—the recent assassination of a German diplomat in Paris has ignited a wave of anti-Jewish sentiment, fueled by Nazi propaganda. As the country spirals, Krützfeld must decide whether to follow orders or stand up for what's right, even if it costs him everything.
Exclusive Clip: Into the Mob
In our exclusive clip, Krützfeld and Lehmann head to the offices of The Jewish Week to question a potential witness. But getting there means wading through a sea of angry protesters, barely held back by SS officers. The tension is palpable as the crowd chants and surges, and the officers' presence only seems to inflame the situation. When Krützfeld asks to take a worker in for questioning, the mob outside turns violent, smashing windows and storming the building. Even the police aren't safe, as the crowd attacks anyone they suspect of involvement in the diplomat's death.
A Cast and Crew with WWII Credentials
Owen and Pettyfer are no strangers to wartime stories. Owen starred in Bent and The Song of Names, while Pettyfer brought action to Guy Ritchie's The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare. Joining them is Mélanie Laurent, known for her role in Inglourious Basterds. Behind the camera, director Stefan Ruzowitzky brings his Academy Award-winning experience from The Counterfeiters, ensuring a poignant and gripping portrayal of this dark chapter. The script, penned by Jonathan Frank, Julius Grützke, and Scott Mann, is based on real events.
For fans of historical dramas, this film promises to be a powerful reminder of the fragility of morality in times of crisis. If you're looking for more WWII stories, check out our exclusive first look at 'I'll Get By', another upcoming drama set during the era. And for a different kind of war story, see how Daniel Craig's Bond films rank among fans.
The Night of Broken Glass is set to bring this harrowing moment to life, and we can't wait to see how it unfolds on screen.
