Claes Bang stars in “I Is Another” as Felix Kersten, Heinrich Himmler’s personal physical therapist, in a film premiering at Locarno. The drama examines Kersten’s contested claim that his influence over the Nazi leader helped save many lives during the Second World War, making him a morally complex historical figure rather than an uncomplicated hero.

Bang says Kersten’s need for recognition was central to the role, arguing that he exaggerated his wartime actions because he felt insufficiently credited and sought a Nobel Peace Prize. The film, directed by Felix Randau and sold by Beta Cinema, also follows an ambitious journalist played by Valerie Pachner who investigates Kersten’s claims while concealing secrets of her own. Bang contrasted the part with John Paul in “Bad Sisters”, whom he described as among the worst characters he has played.