In a significant move, acclaimed German director Wim Wenders has decided to withdraw his 1975 film *Wrong Move* from circulation, due to concerns surrounding a scene featuring a topless 13-year-old Nastassja Kinski. This decision follows a lengthy campaign by Kinski, who has spent the last 15 years urging Wenders to address the troubling aspects of the film.
A Long-Awaited Apology
In a statement released on Wednesday, Wenders confirmed that he has instructed all streaming platforms and distribution partners to remove the film from public access. “As the only person responsible at the time for *Wrong Move* who is still here, I recognise that Nastassja Kinski should have been better protected back then,” he stated. His apology to Kinski was direct and unequivocal: “For that, I apologise to you, Nastassja, unreservedly, no ifs or buts.”
This decision comes in the wake of Kinski’s candid reflections in an interview with *Süddeutsche Zeitung*, where she expressed her frustration over the lack of action from Wenders. “That was my first film, he was my first director, and he didn’t protect me. Even though I didn’t know much aged 13, I knew that that was not okay,” she said, highlighting the need for better safeguarding measures for child actors.
Industry Reaction and Reflection
Wenders, now 80, has long been regarded as one of the foremost figures in postwar German cinema, with celebrated works such as *Wings of Desire* and *Paris, Texas*. Speaking at the recent German film awards, he acknowledged the cultural context of *Wrong Move*, stating that while he would not approach such a scene in the same manner today, any retrospective editing would require a wider dialogue across the film industry. His comments, however, drew criticism from various quarters, including fellow filmmaker Julius Feldmeier, who emphasised that the responsibility lies with Wenders alone to rectify the situation.
The German film community has largely rallied around Kinski’s concerns, amplifying calls for greater accountability and safeguarding measures for young performers. The discourse surrounding *Wrong Move* not only highlights the evolving standards in the film industry but also reflects a growing recognition of the vulnerabilities faced by child actors.
A Legacy Reassessed
Kinski, daughter of the late actor Klaus Kinski, began her career in *Wrong Move* as a mute teenage acrobat. Despite the controversy surrounding her debut, she has since enjoyed a prolific career, appearing in over 60 films across Europe and the US, including a notable collaboration with Wenders in *Paris, Texas*.
Her previous successful campaign against a TV film directed by Wolfgang Petersen—where she was depicted nude at 15—demonstrates her commitment to addressing issues of exploitation within the industry. Her legal team has confirmed that they reached an agreement regarding the distribution of that film with broadcaster NDR.
Why it Matters
Wim Wenders’ decision to withdraw *Wrong Move* is a pivotal moment in the ongoing conversation about the protection of child actors in the film industry. By acknowledging past misjudgements and taking responsibility, Wenders sets a precedent for future filmmakers to prioritise the safety and well-being of young talent. This case serves as a stark reminder of the need for stringent safeguarding protocols, ensuring that the rights and dignity of child performers are upheld in all aspects of filmmaking. In a rapidly changing industry, Wenders’ actions could inspire broader reforms, fostering a safer and more respectful environment for the next generation of artists.
