Films of Su Friedrich, The: Volume 1 – The Ties That Bind

“The Ties That Bind” is a powerful meditation on political responsibility and personal loss as seen through the story of the filmmaker’s mother, who grew up in Nazi Germany. Using rare archival footage, extensive interviews and critical commentary, Friedrich constructs a fearless dialogue between past and present, between mother and daughter. “The Ties That Bind” engages in a profound search for an understanding of history, and challenges us in our responsibility for the present. Languages: English, German * New Directors/New Films, MoMA * “Le Mois du Film Documentaire,” France * “In and Out of the Cold, 1945 to 1995,” International Documentary Congress * “Filmer l’Histoire,” Centre Georges Pompidou * Flaherty Film Seminar; Salsomaggiore Film and TV Festival * Festival of New York Independent Films in Haifa, Tel Aviv and Jerusalem * “1945-1985: Women and Resistance,” Amsterdam “THE TIES THAT BIND is one of the most moving and profound films about the mother-daughter relationship. Blending documentary and experimental modes, Friedrich investigates her mother’s background as a German citizen during WWII–an issue that has vexed her daughter during her youth. While her mother is shown on-screen and is heard acoustically, the filmmaker remains “silent” but voices her thoughts through titles scratched into the film emulsion. In so doing, Friedrich creates a beautiful and powerful film in the tradition of Michelle Citron’s earlier DAUGHTER RITE.” – Lucy Fischer, Professor, UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH “The best of New Directors/New Films.… The film is an original, a moving and courageous tribute from a child to a mother’s beleaguered memory.” – David Edelstein, VILLAGE VOICE “On every level, Friedrich’s films are resonant with thought and craft.” – Scott MacDonald, FILM QUARTERLY PLUS BONUS FEATURE FILM: THE LESBIAN AVENGERS EAT FIRE, TOO a film by Su Friedrich, co-directed by Janet Baus 55 minutes, color, USA, 1993, Video This film documents the first year of actions by The Lesbian Avengers, a group of bold and brazen New York City activists fighting for recognition and equal rights for lesbians everywhere. We recruit!