Table of Contents
Undressed a History of Nudism part one is the first of a two-part documentary looking at the history of nudism. This first episode traces the beginnings of the movement in the nineteenth century and how it differs across Europe. It has a running time of just under 44 minutes and features commentary from nudity researcher Dr. Keon West among other historians and researchers. A more precise sub title would be, A history of European Nudism. The documentary film focus is primal ire on the history of nudism in the former German Democratic Republic or East Germany. It includes vintage video footage of naturist families which makes it unlikely it could ever be broadly available for viewing in the United States.
Naturist interest
The documentary depicts a history of nudism and naturism distinctly different from the online based picture post natourism focus of nudism today. The history of naturism that evolved from the the Lebensreform or life reform movement is effectively addressed. For that reason alone with is historical value this documenotary is a must watch in terms of naturist interest.
Story
The health and wellness component of modern naturism as well as naturism’s back to nature component is clearly highlighted. Historians recount the origins of naturism as a escape from the urbanization of European cities. The cat and mouse game the first European mostly German naturists played with authorities in the days before it was legalized in Germany, is wonderfully illustrated.
The naturist island resort of Heliopolis location on Ilse de Levant is central to the historical story. The emergence of a more sexualized libertine kind of nudity emerged among some of the visitors to the island. The pioneering work of naturist educator Adolf Koch is presented to the viewer. The shifts in public sentiment and struggles to pass on the naturist way of life to a younger generation is noted.
Production Quality
The mix of vintage footage modern video vignettes and expert interviews blend together nicely in this documentary production. The editing is smooth and effective in presenting the story in a connected way. The soundtrack works but doesn’t play a significant role in the overall texture of the film. The cinematography is excellent and the directing is well down putting together a cohesive and engaging story.
Acting
The naturist people interviewed and depicted in the documentary appear authentic. There are life long naturists, newer naturists, old naturists and young naturist doing naked yoga at the Adolf Koch Sport Institute. There is a limited degree of gender diversity, something addressed as an issue in naturism overall. There is no ethic or racial diversity apart from the expert segments with Dr. Keon West. Part one of the documentary ends with a life long naturist struggling with the impact of the social shifts that have changed the naturist landscape he has known an lived his whole life.
Undressed – A History of Nudism parts one and two can be viewed on the Arte web site. Non European viewers will need a VPN for viewing access. Don’t for get to visit this page again if you view and add your own review and rating in the comments.
