MOVIE TITLE: Truth & Treason

This dramatic WWII movie opens in theaters on October 17, 2025

RATING: PG-13

LENGTH: 2 hours 18 minutes

Movie Review Mom GRADE: A-

SPONSOR of Today’s movie review:

Quite a few books have been written about this true story.

Here’s the one with the most reviews on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Vlixci

IN A NUTSHELL:

Truth & Treason, directed by Matt Whitaker (who also co-wrote it with Ethan Vincent), tells the true story of Helmuth Hübener, a 16-year-old German boy living under the Nazi regime who begins to resist when he realizes that the loyalty to his country has become complicit in lies. When his trusted church bishop aligns with the regime, Helmuth’s growing disillusionment leads him to listen to banned radio broadcasts, attempt to spread the truth, and resist the fear that permeates his society.

The topic of this film sure is timely, as our country (USA) is struggling with free speech even now, our First Amendment right in the Constitution that is being threatened.

TIPS FOR PARENTS:

This is not a “family-friendly” film and inappropriate for young children. Kids under 13 might also be bored.
Brutal, bloody violence and torture.
Bullying
Talk of prison and death

THEMES:

Truth
Sacrifice
Loyalty
Nazi Germany
Resistence fighters of WWII
Free speech
Fear and courage to stand for what’s right

THINGS I LIKED:

I’m constantly amazed at all of the inspirational stories about WWII that are still just now coming to American audiences. Helmuth Huebener isn’t one of the most famous figures of WWII resistance, but he was definitely one of the youngest. This gives the film a chance to surprise, educate, and deepen understanding. There’s power in exposing lesser-known moral courage, especially when the stakes are so high. I had never heard of him before, yet his name and courage have not been forgotten. Today, you can see his name on street signs, schools, and several memorials.
The entire cast did an outstanding job. I really love that we get to know two Germans from the opposite side of the war. The cast features Ewan Horrocks as Hübener, with Ferdinand McKay, Daf Thomas, Rupert Evans.
Cinematography is by Bianca Cline.
Composer Aaron Zigman adds credibility in delivering a score that can support the emotional arcs.
The moral conflict—loyalty vs. truth, obedience to authority vs. conscience—is very resonant. In times when authority is taken for granted, or propaganda is questioned, this story could echo many modern tensions. In this film, those themes are done well, allowing the movie to be emotionally moving and thought-provoking.
The choice of filming locations (Lithuania) and involvement of experienced crew suggest a commitment to the visual authenticity and dramatic tone.
For viewers who enjoy historical dramas, stories of resistance, or moral dilemmas, this is likely to be compelling. For religious or faith-oriented audiences, there may also be additional interest in how the film portrays religious institutions under tyranny. Some early viewers are noting that the film does not shy away from uncomfortable truths about how church or religious authority related to the regime.
Given the weight of the subject matter—the fear, oppression, moral conflict, violence—there’s a risk of either becoming too heavy or, conversely, of compressing events in a way that underplays the danger and cost. The film maintains tension, avoid preachiness, and make characters deeply human rather than symbolic.
I expect Truth & Treason to succeed fairly well among viewers who appreciate thoughtful historical dramas. It may not be a blockbuster in the commercial sense, but it will likely have strong word-of-mouth in certain circles (history buffs, faith communities, people interested in WWII resistance).
I don’t think it leans too much toward a “hero narrative” without acknowledging all the ambiguity and layers. It maintains both strength of conviction and complexity of reality.
I love the title and movie poster.

THINGS I DIDN’T LIKE:

At first, it bothered me that all of the Germans had British accents. However, I know it’s difficult to create a Nazi movie about World War II with authentic accents without making all of the characters sound like ridiculous caricatures. The British accent gives it an appropriate European feel that can be taken seriously and isn’t the first Nazi movie to be done this way.
Every film of this sort must pick and choose what to show or omit. For example, members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints might be shocked to learn that the bishop excommunicated Hubener! We do see the bishop encourage his congregation to do the Nazi salute in Sacrament meeting. Yikes.
It was often difficult for me to understand what people were saying because they spoke so softly.

FUNNY LINES:

None worth noting. The movie is certainly not a comedy.

INTERESTING LINES:

“In war, truth is the first casualty.” – Aeschylus
“We will see each other again in a better world.” – Helmuth Hubener (Ewan Horrocks)
“Do not allow your free will, the most precious thing you possess, to be taken away from you.” – Helmuth Hubener (Ewan Horrocks)