Paris, France – French artist Apolonia Sokol, who is the subject of the Oscar-shortlisted documentary “Apolonia, Apolonia,” has often been compared to renowned Mexican painter Frida Kahlo. While she acknowledges some physical similarities, such as a unibrow and mustache, Sokol believes the true parallel lies in their shared compulsion to create. “I can’t tell the difference between my identity and my work. But there really is no difference,” Sokol confesses in the film directed by Lea Glob.
Kahlo, known for creating her own personal mythology in her paintings, inspired Sokol to do the same in her work. “Personal mythology” is a term that Sokol claims wasn’t previously in use, but has since become common. Glob, the filmmaker, played a pivotal role in crafting Sokol’s mythology through the documentary, according to the artist.
The film traces Sokol’s journey through the patriarchal art world and her exploration of her own identity. It highlights her experiences in the avant-garde theater space that her non-traditional parents had converted from a former laundry facility. Sokol’s charisma and magnetic personality hold viewers’ attention, as the documentary captures her interactions with a revolving cast of bohemian characters.
Glob, who initially began the project as Sokol’s shadow, eventually becomes an integral part of the film. Their intertwined paths over the film’s 13-year production provide a duality to the story, with Sokol’s struggle in the art world coinciding with Glob’s own personal evolution.
The documentary also delves into Sokol’s close relationship with fellow artist and activist Oksana Shachko, a co-founder of the Femen radical feminist movement. Their deep bond and mutual determination to confront the patriarchy create powerful moments within the film.
“Apolonia, Apolonia” has received critical acclaim and won the top prize for documentary at the International Documentary Festival Amsterdam (IDFA). Despite having recently secured U.S. distribution, the film has already made the Oscar shortlist. It was acquired by Grasshopper Film and Documentary+, and began playing in New York on Friday at DCTV’s Firehouse Cinema.
The film represents a validation of Glob’s talent and dedication, according to Sokol. The artist recalls their early days together in the bohemian theater space, where Glob’s determined yet quiet nature set her apart. Sokol believes that Glob’s quiet demeanor belied her immense talent, evident in the masterpiece that is “Apolonia, Apolonia.”