Friendship of Men

A playful, essayistic blend of re-enactment and scholarly chat that feels like a curious, affectionate lecture on desire and history.

Directed by

Rosa von Praunheim

Genres

Documentary, Drama

Starring

Rosa von Praunheim, Matthias Luckey, Valentin Schmehl

Overview

In this docudrama Rosa von Praunheim looks into Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s sexual orientation, especially into his erotic experiences during his travels in Italy. Contrary to the common belief, von Praunheim argues that Goethe was not a heartbreaker and conqueror after all. It was only in Italy, that he had diverse sexual experiences, not least with men. Von Praunheim bases his assumption on letters written by Goethe to his friend Friedrich Heinrich Jacobi about these sexual encounters. Some of the content of these letters is re-encated in the film. At the same time, historians and linguists analyse and classify the letters into their historical context.

How it feels

Earnest, satirical, warm and whimsical. Measured and needs your attention.

About

Identity, sexuality, art, memory

Content

Mild sexual content and language. No violence or gore.

Note

Written by AI, so it can be wrong. Full breakdown

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