Marlene Dietrich was one of the most iconic and influential stars of the 20th century. She was born in Berlin in 1901 and began her career as a singer and actress in the Weimar Republic. She rose to international fame after starring in the film ‘The Blue Angel’ (1930), directed by Josef von Sternberg, who became her mentor and lover. She moved to Hollywood and became a US citizen, but never forgot her roots. She was a vocal opponent of Nazism and supported the Allied forces during World War II, entertaining the troops and raising funds. She also had a legendary career as a cabaret performer, touring the world until the late 1970s. She died in Paris in 1992, at the age of 90
The Deutsche Kinemathek in Berlin has acquired and preserved her artistic estate, which consists of over 300,000 pages of written material, 16,500 photographs and over 3,300 textile objects. The Marlene Dietrich Collection Berlin provides a comprehensive and intimate insight into the life and work of this extraordinary star. The collection is available for viewing at the Deutsche Kinemathek, as well as online, where visitors can explore photos from her childhood, her volunteer work during the war, and her glamorous costumes and designs.
The permanent exhibition at the Deutsche Kinemathek also features a section dedicated to Marlene Dietrich, showcasing some of her most memorable film roles, such as ‘Morocco’ (1930), ‘Shanghai Express’ (1932), ‘Destry Rides Again’ (1939) and ‘Witness for the Prosecution’ (1957). The exhibition also highlights her transatlantic connections, her exile from Nazi Germany, and her impact on film and fashion history.
The Marlene Dietrich Exhibition Berlin is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of cinema, the culture of the Weimar Republic, and the personality of a star who defied conventions and boundaries. The exhibition is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.. Tickets can be booked online or purchased at the museum. The exhibition also offers guided tours, audio guides, and special events. For more information, visit the Deutsche Kinemathek website or follow them on social media.
