The Marriage of Maria Braun (1979)

About The Marriage of Maria Braun

The Marriage of Maria Braun is a 1979 West German film directed by Rainer Werner Fassbinder. The movie presents a profound exploration of post-world war Germany through the interwoven experiences of passionate and ambitious Maria Braun.

After marrying in a bombing raid, Maria’s husband, Hermann Braun, leaves for the frontline the very next day. Determined to survive the grim realities of post-war Germany, Maria strategically navigates through relationships, prosperity, and despair while patiently waiting for Hermann's return. A poignant contradiction is created as Maria gains success at the cost of moral providence, bringing forth Fassbinder’s commentary on Germany’s own journey at the time.

Making / Production

The Marcel of Maria Braun is directed by the legendary German auteur Rainer Werner Fassbinder. The production design by Bernhard Henrich perfectly captures the milieu of post-world war Germany. The film was made under the production banner of Albatros Filmproduktion.

Actors

• Hanna Schygulla as Maria Braun – Maria is the riveting protagonist. Schygulla beautifully portrays the complexity of Maria, a woman grappling with war, love, ambition, and the societal constructs of her time.
• Klaus Löwitsch as Hermann Braun – Löwitsch delivers a compelling performance as Maria’s husband, lending a quiet intensity to the character that resurfaces under testing times.
• Ivan Desny as Karl Oswald – Ivan potently represents the affluent business class of post-war Germany, drawn towards Maria’s magnetic persona.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The Marriage of Maria Braun was Fassbinder’s biggest commercial success. The film played a crucial role in launching the 'New German Cinema' movement internationally.
• The bombing raid that occurs during Maria’s wedding was recreated using miniatures and doll’s houses. This innovative approach to filmmaking creates a memorable visual scene in the movie.

Awards

The Marriage of Maria Braun won the German Film Award in Gold for Outstanding Individual Achievement: Actress for Hanna Schygulla. It was also nominated for the Golden Bear at the 29th Berlin International Film Festival.

Quotes

• “I can do anything, except play the whore” (Hanna Schygulla as Maria Braun)
• “Germany is my husband!” (Hanna Schygulla as Maria Braun)

Music / Soundtrack

• The opening music is "Lili Marleen" sung by Lale Andersen, a famous World War II German love song.
• Throughout the film, the contrasting use of songs from the era creates a juxtaposition against the intense drama, aiding the narrative’s deeper meaning.