Nietzsche: Beyond Good and Evil

Nietzsche: Beyond Good and Evil presents the life and philosophy of Friedrich Nietzsche, one of the greatest thinkers of the 19th century. It traces Nietzsche’s journey from his early years as a devout Christian to his eventual rejection of religion and traditional morality.

The film highlights key moments in Nietzsche’s life, including his appointment as a professor at Basel University, his friendship with composer Richard Wagner, and his eventual mental breakdown. It explores Nietzsche’s major philosophical concepts, such as the death of God, the will to power, and the Übermensch.

Through interviews with scholars and experts, the documentary provides context for Nietzsche’s ideas and their impact on modern thought. It discusses how Nietzsche’s sister, Elisabeth, manipulated his work after his death to align with Nazi ideology, despite Nietzsche’s own opposition to nationalism and anti-Semitism.

The film also addresses Nietzsche’s personal struggles, including his chronic health problems and his complex relationships with women, particularly Lou Andreas-Salomé. It examines how these experiences shaped his philosophy and writing style, characterized by short, aphoristic bursts often composed while walking in nature.

By presenting Nietzsche’s life and ideas in their historical context, the documentary offers insight into the philosopher’s enduring influence on fields ranging from psychology to literature. It portrays Nietzsche as a radical thinker who challenged conventional wisdom and encouraged individuals to question established values and create their own meaning in life.