The world of sports also experienced several high-profile downfalls in 2004. One of the most notable examples was the collapse of the New England Patriots' dynasty. After winning several championships, the Patriots' reign at the top came to an end in 2004, when the team lost to the Indianapolis Colts in the playoffs.
The Walls Closing In: Why 'Downfall' (2004) Remains the Definitive Portrait of a Dictator's End downfall -2004-
Why focus on the year? Because 2004 was the last year before the social media explosion. Downfall was the last major "analog" war epic. It was shot on 35mm film, with practical effects and a massive set reconstructing the bunker. It won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film (nomination). It was serious. The world of sports also experienced several high-profile
, creating a relentless atmosphere of doom and isolation from the reality of the Battle of Berlin outside. German-Language Perspective: The Walls Closing In: Why 'Downfall' (2004) Remains
In 2004, YouTube did not exist. The internet was still on LiveJournal and dial-up forums. But by 2007, Downfall had been released on DVD with English subtitles. Some anonymous genius realized that the "Hitler Rants" scene is structurally perfect for parody. The reason? The subtitles never show the specific names of the generals. All we see is Hitler asking for news, being told bad news, and exploding.
“ Downfall (2004) – A masterpiece about the end of a nightmare. Bruno Ganz doesn’t play a monster. He plays a man who became one. And that’s far more terrifying.”