Express at Cannes: "Being Maria" Fuels the #MeToo Conversation

Cannes Highlight: Being Maria

Jessica Palud’s new film, Being Maria, presented at Cannes, is a powerful exploration of the traumatic events surrounding Maria Schneider’s experience on the set of Last Tango in Paris. Based on a book by Schneider's cousin, Vanessa Schneider, the film offers a deep dive into the before, during, and after of the infamous 1972 film, capturing the impact it had on Schneider’s life.

A Shocking Story

Some films catch you off guard, while others you know will unsettle you. But nothing prepares you for the intense horror of watching a young actress, Maria Schneider, unknowingly subjected to a traumatic scene in the name of art. Last Tango in Paris made Schneider famous, but for all the wrong reasons. The infamous scene, orchestrated by director Bernardo Bertolucci and actor Marlon Brando without Schneider’s prior consent, left her scarred and the world in uproar.

A Painful Reality

Reports confirmed that Schneider was not informed about the extent of the scene’s intimacy. Whether it was Brando’s idea with Bertolucci’s compliance or a collaborative decision, Schneider’s lack of awareness and consent was a tragic betrayal.

An Authentic Portrayal

In Being Maria, Anamaria Vartolomai delivers a poignant portrayal of the young, inexperienced Schneider. The film doesn’t follow a linear biopic format but focuses on the crucial period around Last Tango in Paris. Schneider, portrayed as fragile and eager to please, becomes a victim of the director's 'vision,' leading to her being exploited on screen.

A Moment of Heartbreak

One of the film’s most gut-wrenching scenes is when Bertolucci, played by Giuseppe Maggio, visits Schneider post-shoot. She is devastated, but he remains unapologetic, justifying his actions by claiming her uninformed reaction was more ‘natural’. Matt Dillon’s portrayal of Brando captures the actor’s notorious arrogance and sense of entitlement.

The Aftermath

The film also delves into Schneider’s subsequent decline. The negative publicity and trauma lead her into reckless behavior, substance abuse, and career struggles. Her relationship with a reporter becomes a lifeline, gradually helping her recover.

A Timely Reminder

Though the second half of the film lacks the intensity of the first, Being Maria is a crucial addition to the conversation around the #MeToo movement. It highlights the mistreatment of women in the film industry, both on and off set, and underscores the ongoing relevance of these issues.

Cannes Applause for "The Substance"

Another notable film at Cannes, Coralie Fargeat’s The Substance, explores the dark side of youth and beauty in Hollywood. Demi Moore stars as an older actress replaced by a younger version of herself, played by Margaret Qualley, through a mysterious substance. The film received the longest standing ovation at Cannes this year, highlighting its impact and relevance to the #MeToo conversation.

Conclusion

Being Maria and The Substance at Cannes underscore the persistent issues of exploitation and mistreatment in the film industry. These films not only offer compelling narratives but also fuel the essential ongoing dialogue around #MeToo and the treatment of women in Hollywood.

Stay tuned for more Cannes highlights and deep dives into films that matter.