SnowwhiteRosered (1991)

Original Title: Schneeweißrosenrot

Documentary about the twin sister Jutta and Gisela Schmidt. In the late sixties the two women rebelled against middle class society as if they gave vent to a new kind of art. They became active in the underground communist party KPD and showed a heart-felt interest in the colour red, the aesthetics of the revolution. Soon, though, the twins quit their experiments in Germany. They left their husbands and went to Rome, where they met the fabulously wealthy Paul Getty III, and soon things got really out of hand.

Film Overview
"SnowwhiteRosered" is a German tv film that was launched on November 28, 1991. The film is an adjustment of the Brothers Grimm's fairy tale, "Schneeweißchen und Rosenrot" equated as "Snow White and Rose Red". The story is known for its deep ethical lessons and the traditional dichotomy of excellent versus evil provided through the contrast between the caring, kind-hearted protagonists and the deceitful antagonist.

Story and Characters
The movie follows the story of 2 bear-hearted sis, Snow White and Rose Red, coping with their bad but loving mom in a small cottage in the forest. Snow White, characteristically soft and gentle, completely matches her active and assertive sibling, Rose Red.

The relaxing life of the family changes when a captivated bear knocked at their door looking for shelter from the severe winter. The girls' compassion and approval towards the hairy visitor strengthened their bond with the bear, whom they passionately befriended.

Their relationship with the bear makes them the undesirable attention of an evil dwarf. The dwarf, harboring extreme jealousy and hatred towards the bear, crafts a series of tricks to hurt it. Nevertheless, the sis consistently conserve the bear from the dwarf's harmful plans, highlighting the style of kindness triumphing over evil.

Turning Point and Conclusion
In the film's climax, the dwarf deceives the sisters into thinking that the bear is threatening their mother's life. In their desperate attempt to protect their mom, the sis cut off the dwarf's beard releasing the bear from a wicked spell that had turned him into a bear. Revealed in his true form, the bear ends up being a good-looking prince whom the dwarf had bewitched for his riches.

Highlighting the ethical lesson that compassion is constantly rewarded, the Prince extends his gratitude to the ladies by offering them a place in his kingdom. Snow White and Rose Red, together with their mother, leave their impoverished life behind and sign up with the generous Prince at his palace, where they lived happily ever after.

Production and Reception
Directed by Ludwig Ickert and starring Dana Moravkova as Snow White and Katerina Brozova as Rose Red, "SnowwhiteRosered" is a captivating film, liked by critics and audiences alike. Its portrayal of the Grimm's classic tale remains compelling, moving its viewers into a world where great prevails, and generosity is the ultimate virtue.

The movie is praised for its lovely cinematography, engaging story, and interesting performances. It effectively captures the essence of the traditional story, with its juxtaposition of the poignant battle of the protagonists against the sinister villain, producing an ultimate fairy tale narrative.

The film maintains a warm tone throughout, attained with making use of extreme, abundant color combinations and lovely picturesque areas. The efficiencies are heartfelt and convincing and assist develop an affable bond with the audience. Children and grownups alike have valued the film for its classic tale of success of goodness and altruism over evil and greed, making the film "SnowwhiteRosered" a long-lasting favorite.

Top Cast

  • Jutta Winkelmann
    Herself
  • Gisela Getty
    Herself
  • Dennis Hopper (small)
    Dennis Hopper
    Himself
  • Werner Herzog (small)
    Werner Herzog
    Himself
  • Alexander Kluge (small)
    Alexander Kluge
    Himself
  • Andrei Konchalovsky (small)
    Andrei Konchalovsky
    self