Introduction to ‘Being Maria’

‘Being Maria’ is a captivating film featuring Matt Dillon and Anamaria Vartolomei that delves into the life of actress Maria Schneider and the controversial production of the 1972 film ‘Last Tango in Paris’.

The Infamous Scene: A Closer Look

Often regarded as one of cinema’s most notorious moments, ‘Last Tango in Paris’ directed by Bernardo Bertolucci, centers around a tumultuous affair in a Parisian apartment. A particularly shocking scene involving butter was not scripted and was executed without the consent of Schneider, then just 19 years old. This element has sparked considerable debate about consent and the treatment of actors during film production.

Schneider’s Struggles and the Aftermath of ‘Last Tango’

Following the film’s release, Schneider battled addiction and mental health issues, largely attributed to her experiences during filming. Her story has been revived in ‘Being Maria’, which sheds light on her journey and the challenges she faced.

The film is based on a memoir by Vanessa Schneider, Maria’s cousin, and explores the harrowing circumstances surrounding the filming of ‘Last Tango’. In the film, Dillon portrays Brando while Vartolomei plays Schneider.

Historical Context and Reflection

“Given the era in which ‘Last Tango in Paris’ was made, it’s crucial to understand the context,” says Dillon. “The experiences of women in film at that time were vastly different.”

Schneider’s retrospective revelations about the filming of her most recognized scene indicate not only a personal trauma but also a glaring oversight within the industry regarding actor welfare during sensitive scenes.

Recreating a Controversial Moment

‘Being Maria’ does not shy away from recreating the infamous scene; however, it provides a notable shift—this time featuring ample preparation and the inclusion of an intimacy coordinator. This role is increasingly viewed as vital in modern film production, especially following the #MeToo movement.

Dillon reflects on the significance of this change, recognizing the necessity of safeguarding boundaries within on-set dynamics during intimate sequences.

The Experience of Today’s Actors

Vartolomei, portraying Schneider, expressed both empathy and emotional turmoil while filming the reenactment. “I couldn’t imagine what Schneider experienced; I just had the support on set that she lacked,” she noted, reinforcing the importance of supportive environments for actors confronting similar narratives.

The Price of Fame

Maria Schneider faced overwhelming pressures when ‘Last Tango in Paris’ launched her into the limelight. Despite critical acclaim for her performance and the film’s financial success—grossing approximately $36 million in the U.S. alone—she struggled with public perception and personal trauma, leading to erratic behavior and substance abuse.

Schneider’s reputation was often shaped unfairly by her film role, as she attempted to distance herself from the seductive character she portrayed. “People thought I was just like the girl in the movie, but that wasn’t me,” she stated in a reflective interview.

Reassessing Film Legacies

Discussions around ‘Last Tango in Paris’, especially in light of Schneider’s experiences and more recent developments in the film industry, are prompting calls for a reevaluation of classic cinema through a contemporary lens. The need for systemic changes is more evident than ever, as highlighted by Anna Smith, a film critic, who emphasizes the cultural necessity of scrutinizing historical cinematic practices.

Director Jessica Palud of ‘Being Maria’ aims not to condemn the past but to spotlight necessary changes to protect future generations of filmmakers and actors.

Conclusion

‘Being Maria’, set for a U.S. release on April 4, aims to both honor and provide context for Schneider’s life and tumultuous experience in the film industry. By retelling her story, the film not only opens a dialogue about gender dynamics and power within Hollywood but also acknowledges Schneider’s remarkable talent and the challenges she endured throughout her career.