Stella. A Life (2024) Movie Review: A Haunting Exploration of Morality and Survival
Introduction
Kilian Riedhof’s latest cinematic venture, Stella. A Life (2024), delves into the morally complex and tragic life of Stella Goldschlag, a Jewish woman from Berlin who, under the extreme duress of Nazi persecution, became an informant, betraying hundreds of her fellow Jews to save her own life and that of her family. Premiering at the Zurich Film Festival’s Gala Premieres section, the film meticulously examines the psychological and ethical labyrinth that shaped Stella’s decisions, offering a harrowing portrayal of survival, guilt, and the profound consequences of one’s choices.
A Complex Character Study
Stella Goldschlag, portrayed by the immensely talented Paula Beer, is a figure who has been etched into history as both a victim and a villain. Her story is one of extreme ambiguity—her actions, while undeniably cruel, are born out of a desperation that is all too human. Riedhof’s direction avoids the simplistic good-versus-evil narrative, instead presenting Stella as a multifaceted character whose decisions force the audience to confront uncomfortable questions about morality in the face of survival.
Plot Overview
The film is set against the bleak backdrop of Nazi-occupied Berlin, where Stella, once a vibrant young woman with dreams of becoming a jazz singer, is thrust into a harrowing situation. As the walls close in around her, with her family’s lives hanging by a thread, Stella is coerced into a devil’s bargain with the Gestapo. The narrative unfolds over 40 years, chronicling not only Stella’s personal turmoil but also the broader historical context of Germany, from the Third Reich to its post-war division.
A Performance to Remember
Paula Beer’s portrayal of Stella is nothing short of extraordinary. She brings to life the inner conflict of a woman torn between her will to survive and the moral abyss she is drawn into. Beer masterfully conveys the complexity of Stella’s character—her initial innocence, the agony of betrayal, and the haunting guilt that consumes her. Through Beer’s nuanced performance, Stella emerges not merely as a historical figure but as a fully realized human being, one whose tragic choices resonate deeply with the audience.
Cinematic Execution
Kilian Riedhof, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Jan Braren and Marc Blöbaum, crafts Stella. A Life with a keen eye for historical detail and emotional depth. The film’s visual storytelling is enhanced by Benedikt Neuenfels’ cinematography, which juxtaposes the cold, harsh reality of war-torn Berlin with moments of surreal beauty, such as the haunting scene where Stella and her companions dance in an abandoned apartment as bombs fall outside. The lighting choices—often shifting between cold blues and warm reds—symbolize the clash between the oppressive regime and the flickering hope for survival.
Themes and Moral Dilemmas
The central question posed by Stella. A Life is one of moral boundaries: How far would an ordinary person go to protect themselves and their loved ones in the face of unimaginable horrors? Stella’s story is a poignant exploration of the thin line between victim and perpetrator, raising difficult questions about culpability and the human capacity for self-preservation. The film does not offer easy answers but instead invites viewers to grapple with the complex realities of a time when survival often came at an unbearable cost.
A Modern Reflection on Historical Events
What makes Stella. A Life particularly compelling is its modern relevance. While set in the past, Stella’s story echoes contemporary concerns about individualism and the lengths to which people will go to ensure their survival, even at the expense of others. In a world increasingly focused on the self, Stella’s tale serves as a cautionary reminder of the potential consequences of extreme self-interest and the loss of collective empathy.
Conclusion
Stella. A Life is a film that challenges the viewer to look beyond black-and-white judgments and to see the humanity in even the most morally complex characters. Kilian Riedhof has crafted a powerful narrative that is both historically grounded and emotionally resonant, with Paula Beer delivering a performance that will linger in the minds of audiences long after the credits roll. This film is not just a historical drama but a profound exploration of the human condition, making it a must-watch for those interested in stories that push the boundaries of ethics and morality.
Where to Watch
For those looking to experience Stella. A Life (2024), the film is available for streaming on platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu. You can also rent or purchase it through Apple iTunes, Google Play Movies, or Vudu. Be sure to check these platforms to see if the movie is available in your region.
