"The ZDF documentary reveals the impact of the 'death nurse' on a man, showcasing how she ruined his parents' lives, unwittingly escaping culpability"
In September 2022, the documentary film "Beyond Guilt" will air on ZDF, offering a deeply personal glimpse into the lives of Ulla and Didi H., the parents of Niels H., infamously known as the "Angel of Death." The film, originally titled "Jenseits der Schuld," was first broadcast in 2016, and has now been re-released.
Ulla and Didi H. have been grappling with the horrifying reality of their son's crimes for years. Niels H., who aspired to be a nurse like his father, is currently serving a life sentence for 85 murders. The film provides intimate insights into their shattered daily life as they try to find answers to why their son became a serial killer.
Didi H., who continues to work as a nurse, and Ulla, who takes care of the household, have experienced ongoing calls from prison, visits to the detention center, and recurring questions about their son's actions. They have searched for self-blame, questioning if they could have done something differently to prevent their son's actions.
Ulla, who had turned to drinking to escape the horror of her son's crimes, is still in therapy and takes psychotropic drugs. She expresses a desire for her son to face his actions alone, feeling pressured by the constant attention and questions. Didi H., on the other hand, provides emotional support to Ulla, especially during moments of doubt and fear.
The couple has struggled with their relationship due to differing approaches in handling their son's requests, such as legal aid in his colleagues' trial in 2022. Despite this, they have returned to a routine over the years, participating in activities like Christmas markets and New Year's Eve celebrations. Ulla explains that if they were to change their name, they would have to leave their roots.
Filmmakers Katharina K. and Katrin N. accompanied Ulla and Didi for six years for the ZDF film "Beyond Guilt." The documentary is now available in the media library, and will air on ZDF on September 22, 2022. In the film, Ulla and Didi watch films, read books, and talk to their son in an attempt to understand his actions.
Despite the unimaginable pain they have endured, Ulla and Didi H. have not changed their last name. Niels H., their son, knew early on that he wanted to be a nurse, just like his father. The film offers a poignant exploration of a family's struggle to come to terms with the unthinkable, and serves as a reminder of the profound impact of one's actions on those closest to them.
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