Based on the novel "Mephisto" by Klaus Mann, which obviously portrays his former brother-in-law Gustaf Gründgens. Therefore, it was banned in Germany until 2000.
Never once is the name "Hitler" mentioned or Adolf Hitler's image shown throughout the film. Similarly, actor Rolf Hoppe's character, although obviously portraying Hermann Göring, is never referred to by name, only his title "marshal". Göring was reichsmarschall (Reich's Marshal), a title especially made for him as he was Hitler's next in command during the Third Reich. Nor is the traditional raised arm Nazi salute ever done in the movie. NB a portrait of Hitler can actually be seen hanging behind the secretary's desk outside the Prime Minister's office.
Hungary's official submission to the 1982's Oscar in the Best Foreign Language Film category.
Underwent a 4K digital restoration in 2017 using the original image negative and magnetic tape sound, carried out at the Hungarian Film Lab under the supervision of the Hungarian National Film Archive.
István Szabó: A guest wearing a tuxedo on the theater reception party near the end of the film, complaining about the unnecessary expenses of the luxurious party.