Desire

About This Movie

Desire (1990) is an intriguing documentary that takes a deep dive into the complex tapestry of sexuality in Germany between the years of 1910 and 1945. It has this almost raw and unpolished feel, which is fitting given the subject matter. You get to see how these back-to-nature mountain camps created a space for athleticism and same-sex intimacy – it almost feels like a liberation before the storm. The film juxtaposes the vibrancy of the Weimar Republic's gay bars with the chilling suppression by the Nazis. The historians featured offer thoughtful insights into themes of pedagogical Eros, each contributing to a layered understanding of that tumultuous period. It's a nuanced look at how sexuality was shaped, repressed, and fought for in a time of chaos.

Explores pre-Nazi sexual liberationIn-depth historical contextUnique blend of personal and political narratives