Maria Schneider (Anamaria Vartolomei) is a promising young French actress. When she gets the lead in a feature film directed by an acclaimed Italian filmmaker and starring one of America’s most beloved actors, it seems like the opportunity of a lifetime.
Her collaborators, director Bernardo Bertolucci and star Marlon Brando (Matt Dillon) seem to be bringing out the best in Maria, sharing a warm rapport and mentorship with the 19-year old girl. Until one day, when the men conspire to shoot a crucial sex scene as a harrowing assault without letting Maria in on the plan.
The film goes on to be lauded as a fearless artistic breakthrough, but for Maria, it’s the beginning of a living hell. Based on the behind-the-scenes true story of the making of “Last Tango in Paris”, Jessica Palud’s sensitive biopic centers Maria’s story for the first time.
“A fascinating look at the turbulent life of actor Maria Schneider. A cautionary tale that resonates because the central topic is so of the moment.” — Variety
“More relevant than ever. Vartolomei is utterly convincing in the role of Maria.” — Deadline
“The film advocates for Schneider, taking the spotlight away from Tango’s male artists and deservedly repositioning it on the woman who has too long been overlooked.” — Screen International