BENEATH THE TREES: FOLKTALES AT DEFA II (Masters of Cinema) Limited Edition Three-disc Blu-ray Box Set

The "BENEATH THE TREES: FOLKTALES AT DEFA II (Masters of Cinema) Limited Edition Three-disc Blu-ray Box Set" is a captivating cinematic journey into the rich history of East German filmmaking. This meticulously curated box set pays homage to the visionary talents of Peter Zimmer, the director of films at DEFA (Deutsche Film-Aktiengesellschaft), the state-owned film studio responsible for creating many of the most iconic films in the German canon. The box set includes three essential films, each offering a poignant exploration of the human condition under the weight of political and societal constraints.

"THE SECRET GARDEN" (1953) by Peter Zimmer is a beautifully shot adaptation of Frances Hodgson Burnett's beloved novel. This film, which stars young Maria Hegh in the lead role, is a testament to the studio's ability to create visually sumptuous yet socially relevant works. "THE OUTLAWS" (1950) by Edgar G. Ulmer, known for his work in Hollywood's horror genre, delivers a stark and brutal portrayal of class struggle, with its all-East German cast adding a unique layer of authenticity to the film.

"UNBERUHT" (1961) by Wolfgang Markus and Julius Epstein is a harrowing examination of the psychological impact of fascism, centered around a group of air raid wardens who are forced to confront the horrors of their past. The stunning visual style of this film - the result of a collaboration between Markus, Epstein, and cinematographer Wolfgang Wiedemann - is a reminder of DEFA's enduring impact on art cinema.

This limited edition box set is a must-have for cinephiles and film historians alike. Each disc comes with a collectible booklet, featuring new writing on the films by film historians, and the extensive supplements will offer fans unprecedented access to the creative processes behind the scenes. Dive into the think tank of DEFA filmmakers and rediscover the power and artistry of cinema this year.