Butterflies in Berlin: Diary of a Soul Split in Two 2019
In *Butterflies in Berlin: Diary of a Soul Split in Two* (2019), Monica Manganelli crafts a hauntingly beautiful animated short that follows Alex, a woman born in the wrong body, who arrives in 1933 Berlin—once a haven for sexual freedom—searching for identity and acceptance.
Director: Monica Manganelli
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Butterflies in Berlin: Diary of a Soul Split in Two (2019) about?
The animated short follows Alex, a trans woman in 1933 Berlin, as she seeks freedom and identity during a pivotal moment in history. After meeting Dr. Magnus Hirschfeld—a real-life pioneer in sexual liberation—Alex becomes the first trans person to undergo gender-affirming surgery, only to face the rising threat of National Socialism.
Who directed Butterflies in Berlin: Diary of a Soul Split in Two?
Monica Manganelli directed *Butterflies in Berlin: Diary of a Soul Split in Two*. Her work brings a delicate, introspective touch to this historically significant story.
Who stars in Butterflies in Berlin: Diary of a Soul Split in Two?
The film features Paolo De Santis, Dario Penne, Giuliana Nanni, Antonio Paiola, and Gea Riva among its key cast.
Is Butterflies in Berlin: Diary of a Soul Split in Two (2019) worth watching?
As an animated exploration of identity and courage, *Butterflies in Berlin* offers a rare blend of historical depth and emotional resonance. While short in runtime, its themes and striking visuals make it a thought-provoking watch for fans of animated dramas and LGBTQ+ cinema.
How long is Butterflies in Berlin: Diary of a Soul Split in Two?
The runtime for *Butterflies in Berlin: Diary of a Soul Split in Two* is 30 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Butterflies in Berlin: Diary of a Soul Split in Two (2019) — An animated journey through identity and history
In *Butterflies in Berlin: Diary of a Soul Split in Two* (2019), Monica Manganelli crafts a hauntingly beautiful animated short that follows Alex, a woman born in the wrong body, who arrives in 1933 Berlin—once a haven for sexual freedom—searching for identity and acceptance. Directed with sensitivity and visual grace, the film blends historical depth with deeply personal drama as Alex crosses paths with Dr. Magnus Hirschfeld, a pioneering advocate for transgender rights. Their collaboration leads to a groundbreaking medical procedure, marking Alex as a trailblazer in the face of enormous odds. Yet as the shadows of National Socialism grow, the fragile hope for self-discovery is overshadowed by the rise of a regime that would erase such freedoms.
This 30-minute animated meditation on identity, courage, and historical upheaval unfolds like a poetic diary, capturing the fragility of human dignity in turbulent times. With lush animation that contrasts the vibrancy of Berlin's queer culture against the creeping darkness of fascism, *Butterflies in Berlin* offers a profound reflection on what it means to truly belong.