Speculation / Mobilization

This program features two archival finds from the 1980s: LUCY tells a lesbian story in the form of a speculative documentary. While searching for her aunt Lucy, the filmmaker and actress Vérénice (Verena) Rudolph explores New York and its residents in 1984. The Bolex footage makes the city shimmer at night, while intimate portraits of companions uncover the longings and memories of a loved one. Karsten Witte said it “the most beautiful film" he'd seen in a long time, while Alexander Kluge considered it a “great film". Rudolph also worked as an actress for Kluge. FEMALE ZONE is part of the story of political documentary filmmaking at the DFFB, bringing together activists and doctors to examine the state of gynecology and reproductive technology in Germany. Director Gerda Grossmann was active in the women’s movement, working, for instance, at Berlin’s first women’s shelter and at the Hydra counseling center for sex workers. In the late 1980s, the film helped advance the public debate on reproductive medicine as it was shown at universities and training centers for medical professionals. Curated by Fiona Berg, Sophie Holzberger and Arisa Purkpong.

Films:
Lucy Vérénice (former Verena) Rudolph FRG 1984 16 mm German and English OV 45 min.
Weibliche Zone Gerda Grossmann FRG 1986 16 mm German OV 41 min.