The film explores the life and persona of Adolf Hitler through the lens of Hans-Jürgen Syberberg's controversial 1977 cinematic work. Susan Sontag, a renowned critic and filmmaker herself, analyzes Syberberg's ambitious and often unsettling portrayal of the Nazi dictator. The analysis delves into the visual language, thematic concerns, and the broader cultural and political implications of Syberberg's approach to representing such a monumental and destructive historical figure. Sontag examines how the film confronts the viewer with the complexities and disturbing allure of Hitler's image.

Susan Sontag's critical examination of Syberberg's 'Hitler' film is regarded as a significant contribution to film theory and historical analysis. The work is noted for its intellectual rigor and its engagement with the difficult subject matter of representing a figure like Hitler through art. Critics often highlight Sontag's ability to dissect complex visual and thematic elements, offering a nuanced perspective on the film's impact and its place within cinematic history. The analysis is considered essential for understanding both Syberberg's unique cinematic achievement and Sontag's own critical voice.