I have been watching Richard Stanley's the Secret Glory ever since it was included with the release of Dust Devil on DVD. Many years before I had picked up the Starlog issue, talking about the real "Indiana Jones". Of course I was younger and didn't really pay that close attention to it. When I saw this documentary, I connected the dots a much more clear and succinct way. Stanley's doc provided the missing pieces I needed to really drive my curiosity in the subject matter. Full disclosure, I already was a history buff; in particular WW2 and the Occult. Otto Rahn's story checks both those buckets. But a lesser filmmaker would've not pulled this off. A project like this takes passion and tenacity to pull off.

Otto Rahn is a fascinating historical figure. He became obsessed with finding the Holy Grail as he felt, from his research, that he more or less knew it's final resting place. Simultaneously he attracted the attention of Heinrich Himmler who of course would go on to pursue him, at first aiding in his quest, although for completely different reasons.

I could go on but then I'd spoil the documentary for you, dear reader. And I wouldn't want to do that.

Now there are a few things one can critique about the Secret Glory. The picture is a funky frame rate which wastes a lot of screen and the sound mix is sometimes distracting as you cannot quite here the subjects speaking due to the sound design being mixed too high. There are subtitles though that work well and it isn't a constant issue.

Technical issues can be very easily overlooked as the content is worth its weight in gold. And it's all about content. I have watched Secret Glory at least 7 to 10 times. Probably more. I seem to pick up on something new or something different than I previously recalled with every viewing and to me that speaks volumes to how well put together this documentary is.

Fingers crossed that someday we see a feature length film about the life of Herr Rahn.

The documentary is a form of non-fiction storytelling that aims to present factual information, insights, and perspectives on real-world subjects, events, issues, or people. Documentaries can cover a wide range of topics, including history, science, culture, social issues, nature, biographies, and more.

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The drama genre is a broad category that features stories portraying human experiences, emotions, conflicts, and relationships in a realistic and emotionally impactful way. Dramas delve into the complexities of human life, often exploring themes of love, loss, morality, societal issues, personal growth, with the aim to evoke an emotional response from the audience by presenting relatable and thought-provoking stories.

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The mystery genre features the investigation and solving of a puzzle, typically a crime or an enigmatic event. Mysteries are known for their suspenseful narratives, intricate plots, and the challenge they present to readers or viewers to piece together clues and solve the central mystery alongside the characters.

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The thriller genre features suspense, tension, and excitement. These stories are known for keeping audiences on the edge of their seats and delivering intense emotional experiences by revolving around high-stakes situations, dangerous conflicts, and the constant anticipation of unexpected events.

The war genre features armed conflicts, both historical and fictional, and the experiences of individuals and groups involved in warfare. This genre explores the physical, emotional, and moral challenges faced by soldiers, civilians, and others affected by war.

The story of SS officer Otto Rahn and his search for the Holy Grail.

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