The Marriage of
Maria Braun
Die ehe der Maria Braun
1979
Fassbinder does it again with this brilliant work about rebuilding, healing, and the power of women.
Maria (Hanna Schygulla) marries Herman Braun (Klaus Löwitsch) during a bombing in World War II. The couple has little time together before Hermann leaves for the military. In the beginning we see Maria walking the streets with a sign asking if anyone has seen Hermann. The audience is led to believe she loves him very much. Sadly Maria soon receives news that Hermann is dead.
Maria takes a job as a waitress in an army bar. Her job is closer to that of a modern day escort. She meets an American soldier, Bill (George Eagles), and becomes pregnant with his child. As the two are about to sleep together yet again Hermann mysteriously returns, standing in the doorway. Maria panics and hits Bill over the head with a bottle, killing him.
When Maria goes to trial Hermann takes the fall for her, going to prison. Maria decides to have an abortion. She realizes that she will once again be on her own, and takes a job as a secretary. She becomes an asset to the company, although partially due to her good looks and sexual promiscuity. She begins an affair with her boss who falls in love with her despite her cold heart.
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