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Unearthed - The Mystery of the Shaman Woman
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Unearthed - The Mystery of the Shaman Woman (2024)

Jun 22, 2024 53m Documentary History TV Movie

One of the most significant cases in European archaeology is the grave of the shaman woman of Bad Dürrenberg, a key finding of the last hunter-gatherer groups. From a time when there were no written records, this site was first researched by the Nazis, who saw a physically strong male warrior from an ‘original Aryan race’ in the buried person. It was, in fact, the most powerful woman of her time. The latest research shows that she was dark-skinned, had physical deformities, and was a spiritual leader. The documentary – using high-end CGI and motion capture – compares the researchers of the Nazi era, who misrepresented and instrumentalised their findings, to today’s researchers, who meticulously compile findings and evidence, and use cross- disciplinary methods to examine and evaluate them. It also substantiates the theory of the powerful roles women played in prehistoric times. The story of this woman, buried with a baby in her arms, still fascinates us 9,000 years after her death.

Directed by Christian Stiefenhofer

Cast

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Petra Konradi

as Self - Narrator (voice)

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Jörg Orschiedt

as Self - Interviewee

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Andreas Siegl

as Self - Interviewee

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Harald Meller

as Self - Interviewee

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Wolfgang Haak

as Self - Interviewee

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Maïté Rivollat

as Self - Interviewee

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Jill Cook

as Self - Interviewee

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Franziska Knoll

as Self - Interviewee

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Walter Wohlgemuth

as Self - Interviewee

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Patricia Coridun

as Shaman Woman (motion capture performance)

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Merle Schwietert

as Mother / Girl (motion capture performance)

Crew

Director
  • Christian Stiefenhofer
Writer
  • Christian Stiefenhofer
Producer
  • Natalia Lucic
  • Nikola Kohl

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Thematic Analysis

Unearthed - The Mystery of the Shaman Woman represents a fascinating example of Documentary/History/TV Movie cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Christian Stiefenhofer brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2024, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Unearthed - The Mystery of the Shaman Woman took approximately 35 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 53 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 77 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 2495 individual shots.
  • The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.

Historical Context

  • In 2024, when this film is released:
  • Artificial intelligence was becoming increasingly integrated into daily life and creative industries.
  • Climate change mitigation had become a central policy concern internationally.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Unearthed - The Mystery of the Shaman Woman shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Blackadder: The Lost Pilot, which focuses more on action than character development, Unearthed - The Mystery of the Shaman Woman offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Beyoncé & Solange Knowles and Uma casa, uma vida explore similar territory, Unearthed - The Mystery of the Shaman Woman stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: June 22, 2024
  • Runtime: 53m

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