Rainer Werner Fassbinder’s national epic tells the story of Germany’s ‘economic miracle’ recovery through the experiences of three strong women, each resilient in a different way. The Marriage of Maria Braun takes us from the bombings to a postwar struggle for survival. Veronika Voss hangs on to her illusions of a glorious stardom that died with the Reich; she’s now the victim of opportunists. And Lola isn’t the only person corrupting an idealist come to bring fairness to the rebuilding of Coburg: even without a conspiracy, the legitimate town leaders are up to their necks in double-dealing. These are the top titles of the prolific writer-director Fassbinder, beautifully restored.

The Brd Trilogy

Blu-ray

The Marriage of Maria Braun, Veronika Voss, Lola

The Criterion Collection 203

1979-82 / available through The Criterion Collection / Street Date July 9, 2019 / 79.95

Starring: Hanna Schygulla, Rosel Zech, Barbara Sukowa.

Written by Rainer Werner Fassbinder, Pea Fröhlich,...