"Being Maria": Kino Lorber Acquisition of Controversial Film

Overview

Kino Lorber has secured the North American distribution rights for “Being Maria,” a controversial French film that explores the early career of Maria Schneider. Directed by Jessica Palud, the movie offers a compelling retelling of Schneider’s traumatic experience while filming Bernardo Bertolucci’s classic “Last Tango in Paris” and her subsequent fight against the exploitation of actresses in cinema.

Film Synopsis

“Being Maria” focuses on the tumultuous life and career of Maria Schneider, a promising young actress struggling to break into the film industry in the early 1970s. Schneider’s entry into the world of cinema came via her role in "Last Tango in Paris," directed by Bernardo Bertolucci, where she became a reluctant star due to the controversial nature of her on-screen experiences.

Key Cast and Production

The film is beautifully brought to life by Anamaria Vartolomei as Maria Schneider and Matt Dillon as Marlon Brando. Directed by Jessica Palud, “Being Maria” offers an intense exploration of the narrative from Schneider’s perspective, centered around her complex relationship with Brando and the film’s director, Bertolucci.

Industry Response

The movie premiered at the renowned Cannes Film Festival, where it was highly acclaimed, gaining critical attention for being the only female-directed film selected for the Premieres section. Jessica Palud, the director of “Being Maria,” and the cast and crew were praised for their performances, with critics highlighting the unique insights into Schneider’s journey.

Distributor Praise

Lisa Schwartz of Kino Lorber commended the film, stating, “Jessica Palud has crafted a moving, deeply resonant biopic of Maria Schneider. By centering the ‘Last Tango in Paris’ star’s perspective, the film tells a story that feels more timely and relevant than ever.”

Release Information

Kino Lorber plans to release the movie in 2025, including a digital and home video release post-premiere screenings. The film has received significant support from various sources, including Studiocanal,, indicating the industry’s optimism about its impact.

Additional Credits

The production credits for “Being Maria” include Marielle Duigou (producer), Kristina Zimmerman (co-producer), Christie Molia (executive producer), Alex C. Lo (executive producer), and Les Films de Mina, Studiocanal, Moteur S’il Vous Plait productions.

Writer and Adapting

The screenplay is credited to Jessica Palud and Laurette Polmanss, loosely adapted from Vanessa Schneider’s memoir, “My Cousin Maria Schneider.”

Representation and Support

Vanessa Schneider, Maria Schneider’s cousin and author of the memoir, is set to attend the American-French Film Festival, contributing to the overall support and reflection given to this deeply personal narrative.

Conclusions

“Being Maria” represents a critical look at the industry’s historic abuses and the ongoing struggle for better representation and treatment of actresses. The acquisition by Kino Lorber translates Schneider’s story into a proactive approach, celebrating the evolution of cinema under a new lens.

Call to Action

Is cinema’s evolution towards better treatment of its performers a story worth celebrating? Share your thoughts and stay tuned for updates on “Being Maria’s” US release scheduled for 2025.