Berlinale: Sandra Hüller defends Rose, a manifesto on gender identity in the 17th century
German actress Sandra Hüller presented her film 'Rose' at Berlinale, portraying a woman in the 17th century who disguises herself as a man to escape patriarchal constraints.
At the Berlinale, German actress Sandra Hüller showcased her compelling role in 'Rose', a film by director Markus Schleinzer. In this official selection, Hüller plays the character of Rose, a woman from the 17th century who seeks freedom from the restrictive norms of a patriarchal society. Her character adopts a male disguise to navigate her reality, showing the lengths to which individuals might go to achieve autonomy and safety in a male-dominated world.
Set against the backdrop of the Thirty Years’ War, the narrative unfolds as Rose, yearning for peace, intends to settle down on a remote farm within a small rural community. Her disguise allows her to integrate into the local environment, where she earns acceptance through labor and determination. Hüller describes the character’s choice to cross-dress as a means of safeguarding her existence and claiming her identity, reflecting on the broader themes of gender identity and the societal constraints of the era.
The film 'Rose' serves not only as a historical tale but also as a contemporary exploration of issues surrounding gender identity, making it a significant point of discussion at Berlinale. With Hüller's performance bringing depth to this narrative, the film poses questions about identity, freedom, and societal roles, resonating with audiences both then and now.