Award nominee ‘Luisa’ confronts disability care abuse in festival debut

The crew of German film “Luisa,” a contender for the Golden Goblet Awards in the Main Competition, met the press on Monday (June 16) at the ongoing 27th Shanghai International Film Festival.

The movie is based on real-life cases of sexual assault in disability care centers, and shines a light on the struggles of marginalized communities. Its global premiere was held on Sunday at the Shanghai Film Art Center.

Director Julia Roesler and the creative team revealed that many people with disabilities have experienced similar violations depicted in the movie. 

To authentically portray protagonist Luisa's traumatic experiences, the film employs a first-person perspective and nonverbal storytelling.

Breaking new ground, “Luisa” features 10 actors with disabilities. Lead actress Celina Scharff delivers a powerful performance in the film, embodying her character's rebelliousness and vulnerability. 

The cinematographer uses close-up shots to create an immersive inner world, while the musical score serves as a "language for the voiceless," weaving through the emotional narrative . 

Producer Andrea Ufer emphasized that SIFF was selected as the venue for the global premiere of the movie because of its consistent role as a cultural bridge.

“The plight of the disabled group is transnational,” said Ufer. “We believe that the film can resonate well with Chinese audiences in terms of their sensitivity and concerns about humanity.”

The film concludes with an open ending that freezes on Luisa's back, inviting audiences to contemplate her "post-traumatic growth." 

Currently in negotiation for Asian cinema distribution, “Luisa” has already sparked industry-wide discussions with its sharp focus on social issues.