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Wenders withdraws film "False Movement" over nudity scene controversy
🇩🇪 Germany /Culture & Society

Wenders withdraws film "False Movement" over nudity scene controversy

From Die Zeit · () German

Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement New plan
  • Director Wim Wenders is withdrawing his film "False Movement" from distribution due to a controversy over a scene featuring a young Nastassja Kinski.
  • Wenders apologized to Kinski, acknowledging she should have been better protected during the filming of the 1975 movie.
  • The film will remain unavailable until an agreement is reached with Kinski, addressing societal debates on handling controversial 20th-century films.

Filmmaker Wim Wenders has announced the temporary withdrawal of his 1975 film "False Movement" from all distribution channels following a dispute over a scene depicting a then-13-year-old Nastassja Kinski topless.

As the only one of those responsible for "Falsche Bewegung" back then who is still here, I see that Nastassja Kinski should have been better protected. For that, I ask for your forgiveness, Nastassja, without ifs or buts.

— Wim WendersIn a statement from the Wim Wenders Foundation, Wenders apologized to Nastassja Kinski regarding a scene in his 1975 film.

Wenders issued a public apology to Kinski, stating, "As the only one of those responsible for 'False Movement' back then who is still here, I see that Nastassja Kinski should have been better protected. For that, I ask for your forgiveness, Nastassja, without ifs or buts." He expressed gratitude for recent reactions and discussions that sharpened his perspective on the events.

The controversy centers on a scene where Kinski, then a minor, appears with her upper body exposed. Kinski has reportedly sought the removal of this scene for years, telling the "Süddeutsche Zeitung" that even at 13, she knew it was not right. Wenders had previously stated at the German Film Awards that he would "never do it that way again" but felt unable to blame his younger self, arguing he made the film in its time.

Although I didn't know much at 13, I already realized that this was not okay.

— Nastassja KinskiKinski's comment to the "Süddeutsche Zeitung" about the scene in "False Movement."

This situation raises broader questions about how society should handle controversial film heritage from the 20th century. Wenders called for a debate on whether scenes causing distress to actors should be cut and how films can be altered retrospectively. Kinski's lawyer, Christian Schertz, had criticized Wenders' earlier remarks as an attempt to evade responsibility and had announced legal steps due to Wenders reportedly refusing a personal meeting with Kinski for years. Wenders stated the film would only be re-released after a consensus is reached, including Kinski's agreement.

How does one deal with film heritage? Can one cut a scene afterwards if it hurts an actress – whom I have greatly admired and still admire?

— Wim WendersWenders questioning the handling of controversial film scenes at the German Film Awards.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Die Zeit in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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