A documentary about Leni Riefenstahl that shows us previously unseen photos, films, letters and notes that were originally donated to a foundation. Seasoned documentary director Andres Veiel also included footage from previous films and TV programs where Riefenstahl made appearances during her long life.

We get to know a stubborn and talented person whose admiration of strength, especially in human bodies, made her well suited to direct films like Olympia (1938), but also blind to the realities of Hitler’s rule. In this film, she symbolizes West Germany’s inability to truly deal with the past.

Veiel moves between different periods with ease and skill; it’s a darkly compelling portrait, with striking images from Riefenstahl’s body of work.

2024-Germany. 115 min. Color-B/W. Written and directed by Andres Veiel.

Last word: “When I started the film three years ago, I asked [myself], what is the topicality? And then we had the start of the Ukrainian war, of the attack by Putin, and suddenly I saw images of a parade in Moscow in May 2022. And it was Leni Riefenstahl. It was Putin shown from a low angle like the hero is portrayed and the marching bodies.” (Veiel, Deadline)