Despite the scars

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Despite the scars

Despite the scars

original title:

Despite the scars

directed by:

country:

Italy

year:

2025

film run:

72'

format:

colour

status:

Ready (30/05/2025)

festivals & awards:

In an effort to process the emotional and physical trauma of a group sexual assault, Thea seeks a way to express her longing for peace and harmony through dance. Yet even a new relationship and the birth of her first son raise the question of whether healing is truly possible.
In a delicate interplay of melancholy and hope, the documentary Auch Wenn Narben Bleiben (Despite the scars)  explores the traumatic aftermath of sexual violence. Throughout the healing process, Thea externalises her inner struggle, trying to regain her trust in her own body across various spheres - whether in her choreographic works, her pedagogical practice, or her everyday movements. Together with her partner Thiago and their black Labrador Mandinga, she lives on the 21st floor in East Berlin. In this protected space, the film gives room to carefree surrender and playfulness. Thea's pregnancy marks a symbolic turning point, allowing her to rediscover her body. In self-recorded video diaries, she shares her progress and setbacks over the past few years. These personal recordings create an intimate connection and give Thea the opportunity to tell her own story. Recurrent dance improvisations subtly break the documentary form, creating a space for reflection alongside touching emotions.
Auch Wenn Narben Bleiben follows Thea’s journey with strength and optimism, standing as a testament to resilience, a dialogue of equals, and a constant pursuit to regain control over one's life.