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Child Abuse Survivor Fights Back in Court
28 Jan
Summary
- Film 'Karla' stars Vicky Krieps' daughter as a survivor.
- Director sought to center hope, not trauma, in depiction.
- No abuse is shown; focus is on legal journey and resilience.
The film "Karla," a searing examination of trauma, is making its debut in the Ingmar Bergman competition at the Göteborg Film Festival. Director Christina Tournatzés immediately recognized Elise Krieps, daughter of actress Vicky Krieps, as the ideal lead for the titular role.
The feature debut, inspired by a 1962 Munich case where a young girl sued her father for sexual abuse, centers on Karla's journey. Tournatzés aimed to create a film about hope rather than solely trauma, highlighting Karla's fight for her rights.
Tournatzés focused on the legal aspects and Karla's emotional experience, using surreal flashbacks instead of depicting the abuse. This approach protected the child's dignity and the young actress, Elise Krieps, who was 12 during filming.
Working with Krieps required a unique approach, including shooting chronologically and limiting her on-set hours. Tournatzés also decided against providing the young actor with the full script beforehand to capture her authentic development.
"Karla" was produced by Jamila Wenske and Melanie Blocksdorf for Achtung Panda! Media. Tournatzés is now preparing for her next project, a TV series and a sophomore film that will also explore themes of speechlessness.
