Directed by the iconic Rainer Werner Fassbinder, a prominent figure in the New German Cinema movement, this 1979 feature is the first instalment in Fassbinder's BRD Trilogy, exploring post-World War II German society.
The narrative follows Maria Braun, played by Hanna Schygulla, as she navigates the challenges of life and love in the aftermath of the war in which her husband was sent to the Eastern Front. Fassbinder skilfully uses Maria's story as a lens to examine the economic and social reconstruction of Germany during the Wirtschaftswunder, or economic miracle.
The film is marked by Fassbinder's stylistic brilliance, including his use of long takes and intense close-ups. Schygulla delivers a powerful performance, embodying Maria's resilience and determination. Both personal and political, the film explores themes of identity, love, and societal changes.
Garnering critical acclaim for its exploration of the complexities of post-war Germany and its impact on individuals, Fassbinder's film is a poignant and visually striking commentary on the nation's rebirth amidst the ruins of war.
WINNER – Silver Berlin Bear: Best Actress, Outstanding Single Achievement, Reader Jury of the “Berliner Morgenpost”, Berlin International Film Festival 1979
WINNER (x5) – Outstanding Feature Film, Best Direction, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actress, Best Production Design, German Film Awards 1979
NOMINEE – Best Foreign Film, Golden Globes 1980
"This movie - emotionally absorbing, visually breathtaking and intellectually demanding - is a masterpiece."
- People
Tuesday 19th March
120 min
M
Hanna Schygulla, Klaus Löwitsch, Ivan Desny, Gisela Uhlen
Rainer Werner Fassbinder
Film Festival
German, English, French with English subtitles
Chauvel Cinema, Astor Theatre
