Riefenstahl Documentary Wins Venice Prize, Acquired by Kino Lorber

Acquisition Details

Kino Lorber has acquired the North American rights to Andres Veiel’s Venice prize-winning documentary Riefenstahl, which tells the story of the infamous German filmmaker Leni Riefenstahl.

About the Documentary

Veiel uses previously unpublished materials from Riefenstahl’s estate to explore how she became the Reich’s preeminent filmmaker. The film covers her early days as an actress, her transition into filmmaking, and her rise to prominence as a propagandist of great influence.

Riefenstahl directed Triumph Of The Will (1935), a documentary about the 1934 Nazi Party rally in Nuremberg, as well as the two-part Olympia chronicling the 1936 Berlin Olympics.

A Controversial Figure

Riefenstahl was a close friend of Adolf Hitler and other high-ranking Nazis, but after World War II, she denied her association with Nazi ideology and claimed ignorance of the Holocaust. Her work still resonates today as far-right politicians gain ground across Europe.

Release Plans

Kino Lorber plans to release the documentary theatrically in 2025, followed by digital, educational, and home video releases. Head of Theatrical Acquisitions and Distribution Lisa Schwartz negotiated the deal with Dirk Schuerhoff, CEO of Beta Cinema.

Production Credits

Riefenstahl is produced by Vincent Productions in co-production with WDR, NDR, BR, SWR, and rbb, in collaboration with Rai Cinema. The production is supported by FFA, BKM, Medienboard Berlin-Brandenburg, Filmstiftung NRW, and DFFF. Sandra Maischberger served as producer.

Conclusion

Riefenstahl’s fascinating and complex story is expected to captivate audiences with its exploration of the life and legacy of this powerful and controversial filmmaker.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the documentary Riefenstahl about?
A: Riefenstahl is a documentary about the life and career of Leni Riefenstahl, a German filmmaker and photographer who was known for her work with the Nazi regime.

Q: What kind of materials does the documentary use?
A: The documentary uses previously unpublished materials from Riefenstahl’s estate, including private films, photos, recordings, and letters.

Q: What is Riefenstahl’s legacy?
A: Riefenstahl is a controversial figure due to her association with the Nazi regime and her role as a propagandist during World War II. Despite this, her work is still widely regarded as iconic and influential in the field of filmmaking.