Vérénice Rudolph and Gerda Grossmann 1980s Films Screenings

Two archival finds from the 1980s examining lesbian storytelling and reproductive technology in Germany are screening as part of a curated program at Arsenal, featuring works by Vérénice Rudolph and Gerda Grossmann.

LUCY and New York in 1984

The program features Vérénice (Verena) Rudolph’s 1984 film LUCY, which tells a lesbian story in the form of a speculative documentary. While searching for her aunt Lucy, filmmaker and actress Rudolph explores New York and its residents. The production uses Bolex footage to make the city shimmer at night, alongside intimate portraits of companions that uncover the longings and memories of a loved one.

Karsten Witte described the FRG 1984 16 mm German and English OV production—which runs for 45 minutes—as the most beautiful film he had seen in a long time, while Alexander Kluge considered it a great film. Rudolph previously worked as an actress for Kluge.

FEMALE ZONE and Reproductive Technology

Gerda Grossmann’s 1986 film FEMALE ZONE (Weibliche Zone) forms part of the history of political documentary filmmaking at the DFFB. The 41-minute FRG 1986 16 mm German OV brings together activists and doctors to examine the state of gynecology and reproductive technology in Germany.

Director Grossmann was active in the women’s movement, having worked at Berlin’s first women’s shelter and at the Hydra counseling center for sex workers. In the late 1980s, her film helped advance the public debate on reproductive medicine through screenings at universities and training centers for medical professionals. The overarching screening program is curated by Fiona Berg, Sophie Holzberger, and Arisa Purkpong.