I Remember Your Face: A Captivating Review

Dieses intime Porträt der New Yorker Fotografin Nan Goldin von der Dokumentarfilmerin Sabine Lidl ist ebenso kompromisslos und ungeschminkt wie die Schnappschüsse, die Goldin als eine der wohl einflussreichsten, gefeiertsten und umstrittensten Fotografinnen ihrer Generation definieren. Goldins Werk wurde erstmals in den 1970er Jahren ausgestellt, aber in die Kunstszene platzte sie mit „The Ballad of Sexual Dependency“, einer Multimedia-Präsentation von über 900 Fotografien, die zwischen 1979 und 1986 entstanden sind, einer schonungslos offenen Aufzeichnung ihrer selbst, ihrer Freunde und ihrer Liebhaber, darunter Drogenabhängige, Prostituierte und Außenseiter aus dem hedonistischen New Yorker Untergrund und der schwulen Subkultur Europas. In den 1990er Jahren waren viele ihrer Protagonisten bereits an AIDS gestorben. In „I Remember Your Face“ begleitet Lidl Goldin — die zum Zeitpunkt der Dreharbeiten fast 60 Jahre alt war — auf einer nostalgischen Reise von Paris nach Berlin, auf der sie alte Treffpunkte besucht, Freunde wiedertrifft, Details früherer Begegnungen erzählt und ironische Beobachtungen zu so unterschiedlichen Themen wie dem Bösen, dem religiösen Glauben, den Gemälden von Hieronymous Bosch, den Auswirkungen des Selbstmords ihrer Schwester und der Freude, einen Hummer zu verschenken, macht. Das Ergebnis ist ein persönlicher, unbekümmerter und durch und durch fesselnder Blick auf die Künstlerin bei der Arbeit und beim Spiel. (Quelle: Missingfilms)

Full Review

Nan Goldin, the New York photographer known for her raw and unfiltered snapshots, is the subject of Sabine Lidl’s documentary “I Remember Your Face.” The film provides an intimate portrait of Goldin, showcasing her as one of the most influential, celebrated, and controversial photographers of her generation.

Goldin’s career began in the 1970s, but it was her groundbreaking work “The Ballad of Sexual Dependency” that catapulted her into the art scene. This multimedia presentation featured over 900 photographs taken between 1979 and 1986, offering a candid glimpse into Goldin’s life, her friends, and her lovers, many of whom were marginalized individuals from the New York underground and European gay subculture.

As Goldin revisits her past in “I Remember Your Face,” viewers are taken on a nostalgic journey from Paris to Berlin. Through encounters with old friends and reflections on her experiences, Goldin shares profound insights on topics ranging from evil and religious beliefs to the impact of her sister’s suicide. The film captures Goldin at nearly 60 years old, blending moments of nostalgia with a playful and unapologetic spirit.

Conclusion

“I Remember Your Face” offers a personal and captivating look at Nan Goldin as both an artist and a free spirit. Sabine Lidl’s documentary delves deep into Goldin’s world, highlighting her unique perspective and unapologetic approach to photography. Through a mix of nostalgia and candid storytelling, the film paints a compelling portrait of a legendary artist.

FAQs

1. Who is the focus of the documentary “I Remember Your Face”?

The documentary “I Remember Your Face” focuses on the renowned New York photographer Nan Goldin and her impactful work in the art world.

2. What was Nan Goldin’s breakthrough project?

Nan Goldin’s breakthrough project was “The Ballad of Sexual Dependency,” a multimedia presentation featuring over 900 photographs that candidly captured her life and the lives of her friends and lovers.

3. What themes are explored in “I Remember Your Face”?

The documentary delves into themes such as nostalgia, friendship, loss, religion, and the artist’s unique perspective on life and art.

4. How does Sabine Lidl portray Nan Goldin in the film?

Sabine Lidl portrays Nan Goldin as a multifaceted artist with a deep connection to her past, her friends, and her art. The film captures Goldin’s unapologetic and playful spirit as she reflects on her life and work.

5. What is the significance of Goldin’s work in the art world?

Nan Goldin’s work is highly regarded for its raw and honest portrayal of human emotions and relationships. She has been a pioneering figure in contemporary photography, influencing generations of artists.

6. How does “I Remember Your Face” provide insight into Goldin’s life?

The film takes viewers on a nostalgic journey with Nan Goldin, offering glimpses into her past, her friendships, and her reflections on art, loss, and the passage of time.

7. What emotions does the documentary evoke in viewers?

“I Remember Your Face” evokes a range of emotions, from nostalgia and introspection to joy and contemplation. It invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences and connections.

8. How does Nan Goldin’s work challenge societal norms?

Nan Goldin’s work challenges societal norms by presenting unfiltered and raw images of human experiences, including marginalized individuals and taboo subjects. She confronts viewers with the realities of life and relationships.

9. What makes “I Remember Your Face” a compelling watch?

The documentary is a compelling watch due to its intimate portrayal of Nan Goldin, the captivating storytelling by Sabine Lidl, and the artist’s unapologetic approach to art and life. It offers a unique insight into the mind of a legendary photographer.

10. Where can viewers watch “I Remember Your Face”?

“I Remember Your Face” is available for streaming on Netflix, offering audiences the opportunity to delve into the world of Nan Goldin and experience her artistry firsthand.

Tags

Nan Goldin, Sabine Lidl, Documentary, Photography, Art, Nostalgia