Last Updated on 26 May 2025 by frenchflicks
”Being Maria” is a 2024 French biographical drama directed by Jessica Palud that delves into the turbulent life of actress Maria Schneider, particularly focusing on her experiences during the filming of Bernardo Bertolucci’s controversial 1972 film, “Last Tango in Paris.” The movie aims to shed light on the challenges Schneider faced in an industry rife with exploitation.
The film stars Anamaria Vartolomei as Maria Schneider, with Matt Dillon portraying Marlon Brando and Giuseppe Maggio as Bernardo Bertolucci. The narrative explores Schneider’s casting in “Last Tango in Paris” at the age of 19, her interactions with Brando and Bertolucci, and the profound impact of a notorious scene that was filmed without her prior consent. This event led to significant personal and professional turmoil for Schneider. The supporting cast includes Céleste Brunnquell, Yvan Attal, and Marie Gillain. The film had its world premiere at the 77th Cannes Film Festival on May 21, 2024, and was released theatrically in France on June 19, 2024.
What did critics think of Being Maria
Critical reception in France was mixed. Le Monde highlighted the film’s focus on the infamous scene, noting that it emphasized the moral shortcomings of the film industry more than providing a deep exploration of Schneider’s life. In the United States, reviews were also varied. Variety acknowledged the film’s earnestness and contemporary relevance but pointed out its somewhat clichéd portrayal of a celebrity’s downward spiral. The Hollywood Reporter observed that the film started strong but lost direction as the narrative progressed.
U.S. Trailer for Being Maria
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