Watch Egon Schiele Death and the Maiden

Egon Schiele: Death and the Maiden is a biographical drama film directed by Dieter Berner and released in 2016. The movie tells the story of the Austrian painter Egon Schiele, a prominent figure of the Expressionist movement in the early 20th century. The film is set in Vienna, between 1910 and 1918, a time of creative effervescence and societal change in Europe.

The movie follows the life of a young and talented Schiele, played by Noah Saavedra. At the beginning of the film, Schiele is an ambitious and rebellious art student who seeks to break free from academic conventions and create a new form of art that expresses his innermost fears and desires. Schiele's art is bold, provocative, and deeply introspective, often depicting the human body in unusual and unsettling ways.

Throughout the film, we witness Schiele's artistic evolution and his personal struggles as he faces censorship, opposition from the conservative Viennese society, and his own demons. Schiele's controversial paintings, which often depict nudity, masturbation, and death, raise moral and legal concerns that threaten to ruin his career and reputation. Moreover, Schiele is haunted by the memories of his childhood traumas, the death of his beloved sister, and his complicated relationships with women.

One of the central themes of the movie is Schiele's relationship with his muse and lover, Wally Neuzil, played by Maresi Riegner. Wally is a young and spirited model who becomes Schiele's muse and partner in both art and life. Their intense and sensuous relationship is a source of inspiration for Schiele's paintings, but also a source of controversy and scandal. Wally's unconventional behavior and her status as a lower-class woman are frowned upon by the Viennese society, and Schiele's association with her further tarnishes his reputation.

As the war breaks out and the world around them crumbles, Schiele and Wally's relationship is put to the test. Schiele faces the possibility of being drafted into the army or being arrested for his controversial artwork, while Wally must find a way to survive in a society that rejects her. The film doesn't shy away from portraying the harsh realities of war and the impact it has on artists and civilians alike.

Throughout the movie, the cinematography is stunning, and the use of light and color contributes to the mood and atmosphere of each scene. The film's soundtrack is also noteworthy, featuring a mix of classical and contemporary music that accentuates the emotional intensity of the story.

The performances of the cast are superb, with Noah Saavedra delivering a nuanced and powerful portrayal of Schiele. Saavedra's performance conveys Schiele's inner turmoil and his unyielding passion for art. Maresi Riegner is equally compelling, portraying Wally as a complex and multifaceted character who defies societal norms and fights for her freedom.

Overall, Egon Schiele: Death and the Maiden is a captivating and thought-provoking film that delves into the life and art of a prominent figure in the History of Art. Through its vivid portrayal of Schiele's artistic vision and personal struggles, the movie offers a glimpse into the tumultuous times of early 20th century Vienna and the challenges faced by artists who dared to question the status quo.

Egon Schiele Death and the Maiden is a 2016 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 50 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.