The Zone of Interest

The ending of The Zone of Interest is both haunting and thought-provoking. Throughout the film, Rudolf Hoss, the infamous Auschwitz commandant, is portrayed as someone who, outwardly, seems to be deeply engaged in his work, proud of the new innovations in extermination he oversees, and seemingly unaffected by the horrors happening just outside his home. However, towards the end, a change occurs. Rudolf is shown in his Berlin office, excitedly discussing the construction of new gas chambers and the future killings of Hungarian Jews, but suddenly, he is struck with violent bouts of retching. This physical reaction suggests that even the most hardened perpetrator harbors a conscience—or at least, an awareness of the monstrous act he commits. The scene shifts briefly to modern times, where the Auschwitz museum openly displays the horrifying evidence of the Holocaust, like shoes and torn uniforms, reminding viewers of the scale of the atrocities. Rudolf’s discomfort in the final scenes hints at his inner guilt and the acknowledgment, deep down, that his legacy is one of evil. The film leaves viewers with a sobering contrast: there was considerable indifference and normalcy around the Holocaust for most people, but ultimately, the evidence remains and the conscience of even the most committed killers cannot be fully silenced. Rudolf’s sense of unease at the end suggests that, despite his participation and pride, he can never fully escape the horror of his actions or the judgment of history.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 08:44