Film and Fashion amidst the Ruins of Berlin: From Nazism to the Cold War

Cinematic treatments of fashion during times of crisis offer subtle reflections on the everyday lives, desires, careers, and self-perceptions of postwar German women. This book explores the intersections between realism and escapism in German films, focusing on costumes as a productive site to explore these connections. It reveals multiple connections between film and fashion, both across the temporal dividing line of 1945 and the Cold War split between East and West.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 266 pages
Publication date: 14 March 2023
Publisher: Boydell & Brewer Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate relationship between cinema and fashion during times of crisis, shedding light on the profound reflections these artistic mediums offer on the everyday lives, desires, careers, and self-perceptions of postwar German women. By examining the intersection of film and fashion, the author highlights the remarkable ways in which these cultural expressions intertwined and shaped the societal landscape of postwar Germany.

The book takes a multi-faceted approach, exploring not only the immediate postwar years but also tracing the historical connections between film and fashion as far back as 1939. It recognizes the significant role that both film and fashion played in the postwar recovery processes in both East and West Germany, serving as spectacular sites of transformation and renewal.

Within the context of the abundant fashion discourses in the Berlin-based press, the book discusses a selection of films that offer insightful portrayals of fashion during times of crisis. These films encompass a range of genres, from classics such as "The Murderers Are Among Us" and "Street Acquaintance" to neglected works such as "And the Heavens Above Us," "Martina," "Modell Bianka," and "Ingrid." By examining the treatments of fashion in these films, the author uncovers subtle reflections on the everyday lives, desires, careers, and self-perceptions of the women who formed a large majority of the postwar public.

Costume, as a key element in the cinematic portrayal of fashion, becomes a productive site for exploring the intersections between realism and escapism. The book delves into the role of the costume designer, the ways in which film costumes can be read as intertexts, and the impact that these costumes have on audiences' behaviors and looks. It sheds light on the creative processes behind costume design, the historical influences, and the ways in which costumes contribute to the overall narrative and thematic elements of the films.

Through its comprehensive analysis, the book reveals numerous connections between film and fashion, both across the temporal dividing line of 1945 and the Cold War split between East and West. It highlights the shared cultural influences, the exchange of ideas, and the mutual shaping of these artistic mediums. The book offers a fresh perspective on the complex relationship between cinema and fashion, shedding light on the ways in which they intersected to shape the identity and aspirations of postwar German women.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable contribution to the field of film studies and fashion history. It provides a deep understanding of the ways in which cinematic treatments of fashion during times of crisis offer subtle reflections on the everyday lives, desires, careers, and self-perceptions of postwar German women. By examining the intersections between film and fashion, the author opens up wider discussions about the role of these cultural expressions in shaping societal attitudes and behaviors. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of German culture and its profound impact on the world.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781640141575