Rising Star Julia Franz Richter: From Nativity Plays to Berlinale Spotlight
Julia Franz Richter, the talented Austrian actress, is making waves in the film industry with her impressive performances. After notable roles in films like Ghost Trail, Peacock, and Rubikon, she is now shining at the Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) with two films: Welcome Home Baby and Mother's Baby.
Richter first experienced the thrill of the Berlinale in 2020 as part of the cast of Christian Petzold’s Undine. This year, she returns to the festival, showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. In Welcome Home Baby, directed by Andreas Prochaska, she plays Judith, a Berlin emergency doctor who inherits a mysterious house in rural Austria from the family that gave her up as a child. The film delves into themes of identity and trauma, as Judith confronts her past during her stay in the village.
In addition to her leading role in Welcome Home Baby, Richter also appears in Mother's Baby, directed by Johanna Moder. This film, which premieres in the competition lineup, follows Julia, played by Marie Leuenberger, as she navigates the challenges of motherhood after a successful fertility treatment. Richter portrays a midwife in the clinic, adding depth to the film's exploration of family dynamics and personal struggles.
Reflecting on her dual presence at the Berlinale, Richter describes the experience as "surreal" and emphasizes the importance of the festival as a platform for social discourse. Her journey into acting began in childhood, participating in nativity plays, which sparked her passion for performance. She later pursued formal training at the University of Music and Performing Arts in Graz, Austria, and gained experience at the Munich Volkstheater.
Richter's breakout role came in 2020 when she won the Best Actress award at the Diagonale film festival for her performance in Der Taucher. Her role in Undine further solidified her status as a rising star. In 2022, she appeared in two acclaimed films, showcasing her range and ability to tackle complex characters.
When it comes to choosing roles, Richter is drawn to characters that resonate with her and scripts that challenge her creatively. She enjoys exploring different genres, particularly those that allow for unique storytelling. Her portrayal of Judith in Welcome Home Baby required her to navigate intense emotional and physical extremes, showcasing her dedication to her craft.
Richter admires fellow actress Sandra Hüller and is inspired by her approach to selecting projects. She values collaboration with passionate filmmakers and actors, believing that the creative process thrives on shared energy and ideas.
Beyond acting, Richter is interested in writing and is currently working on two scripts, one focusing on feminist perspectives in mining and the other exploring family dynamics during a holiday. She embraces interdisciplinary work, having participated in various artistic endeavors, including dance performances and music projects.
As she continues to evolve as an artist, Julia Franz Richter remains committed to pushing her boundaries and exploring new creative avenues. With her talent and determination, she is undoubtedly a rising star to watch in the world of film.
