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the einstein of sex
The Einstein of Sex
by Marcy Dermansky

Guide Rating -  


Have any idea about the origin of the word transvestite? German filmmaker Rosa von Praunheim's "The Einstein of Sex" recreates the moment it happened, in addition to frolic-filled, naked afternoons of pre-World War Two gay men societies, and more.

Praulheim winningly tells the forgotten story of Dr. Magnus Hirschfeld, a German Jew who founded the first gay political group in Germany. The good doctor also established the first medical practice for gays and the Institute of Sexual Science, which thrived until the Nazis came into power.

"The Einstein of Sex" has the look of a poorly made television drama, but don't let that distract you. Praunheim tells an important story and he tells it well: with humor and compassion, with rounded, emphatic characters. A sometimes painful, often humorous look back at history, Praunheim explores the all-too-sad reality of the founding father of the gay movement closeting his own sexuality to achieve his goals.

The TLA DVD is in German with English subtitles. Special features include "Magnus & Rosa - documentary about the real Magnus Hirschfeld and the director Rosa von Praunheim" and a photo gallery.


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