With a quote loosely based on Michelangelo – “So that a thousand years after we are dead, people will see how beautiful you were...” – this documentary opens a sensitive and profound exploration of the lives of four nude models at the Leipzig Academy of Fine Arts. Director Mario Schneider not only provides insights into their work as models, but also into their personal stories and motivations. The protagonists – Gabriela, Uta, Max and Anette – not only undress physically, but also open up emotionally. They leave their hectic everyday lives behind and become living sculptures in the quiet space of the studio, remaining in poses for minutes or hours. The film challenges traditional perceptions of beauty and shows that nakedness means more than just taking off clothes. It is about authenticity, vulnerability and the stories their bodies tell. NAKED BEAUTY was released in 2015 and presented at numerous national and international festivals. The film received recognition for its empathetic approach and aesthetic portrayal of the human body. Schneider's ability to create intimacy with his protagonists was highlighted by critics. The Sächsische Zeitung praised: “Once again, Schneider paints with the camera rather than filming. And once again, he has created a true portrait.” The Kölner Stadtanzeiger described the film as “gentle and avoiding any voyeurism”. Mario Schneider, known for his award-winning MansFeld trilogy, once again demonstrates his talent for creating intimate portraits with AKT. The film invites us to reflect on the definition of beauty and the relationship between artist and model. The combination of stunning imagery and profound interviews creates a work that resonates for a long time and encourages viewers to question their own perception of nudity and aesthetics.
Multi-talented Mario Schneider, known for his sensitive cinematic portraits (HELBRA, HEINZ UND FRED) devotes his latest work to eternal beauty.
With a quote loosely based on Michelangelo – “So that a thousand years after we are dead, people will see how beautiful you were...” – this documentary opens a sensitive and profound exploration of the lives of four nude models at the Leipzig Academy of Fine Arts. Director Mario Schneider not only provides insights into their work as models, but also into their personal stories and motivations.
The protagonists – Gabriela, Uta, Max and Anette – not only undress physically, but also open up emotionally. They leave their hectic everyday lives behind and become living sculptures in the quiet space of the studio, remaining in poses for minutes or hours. The film challenges traditional perceptions of beauty and shows that nakedness means more than just taking off clothes. It is about authenticity, vulnerability and the stories their bodies tell.
NAKED BEAUTY was released in 2015 and presented at numerous national and international festivals. The film received recognition for its empathetic approach and aesthetic portrayal of the human body. Schneider's ability to create intimacy with his protagonists was highlighted by critics. The Sächsische Zeitung praised: “Once again, Schneider paints with the camera rather than filming. And once again, he has created a true portrait.” The Kölner Stadtanzeiger described the film as “gentle and avoiding any voyeurism”.
Mario Schneider, known for his award-winning MansFeld trilogy, once again demonstrates his talent for creating intimate portraits with AKT. The film invites us to reflect on the definition of beauty and the relationship between artist and model. The combination of stunning imagery and profound interviews creates a work that resonates for a long time and encourages viewers to question their own perception of nudity and aesthetics.