Body swap movies usually follow a predictable formula: a character finds themselves in someone else’s body and hilarity ensues, but ultimately everything returns to normal. However, German Kazakhstani director Alex Schaad, along with his brother Dimitrij Schaad, has taken a different approach in their debut feature film “Skin Deep.” This intimate and thought-provoking drama challenges the audience’s perceptions of gender and personal autonomy.
Premiering at the Venice Film Festival in 2022, “Skin Deep” has garnered attention and acclaim. The highlight came when the film won the Queer Lion, a prestigious award that recognizes LGBTQ-themed films. Alex and Dimitrij, both heterosexual-identifying cisgender men, were surprised but grateful for the recognition. They were initially concerned about potential criticism for tackling a narrative that is not inherently their own. However, they were moved by the positive response from the queer community in Germany.
The film centers around Tristan and Leyla, a heterosexual couple, who embark on an island excursion hosted by a community of body swappers. While Tristan is open to the experience, Leyla feels a deeper urgency and emotional distance. Through their journey, both characters undergo profound transformations, ultimately finding personal renewal and growth.
The concept of body swapping in “Skin Deep” reflects a deep human desire to experience life through another person’s perspective. Consent and boundaries are crucial in this narrative, with the film emphasizing the importance of reverting to one’s original form if any participant becomes uncomfortable. The Schaad brothers deliberately chose a pastoral setting for the story, creating a modern-day fairy tale. They aimed to provide a gentle and inviting experience for the audience, steering clear of the mundane realities of daily life.
The film’s ensemble cast, consisting of theater actors, embarked on their own exploration of each other’s physicality during rehearsals. The original plan was for Dimitrij to play the lead role of Tristan, while Alex would portray the more comedic character, Mo. However, through the development process, they found that the vice-versa casting worked better for the narrative’s dramatic impact. The goal was not simply to imitate each other but to understand the essence of another person.
While “Skin Deep” touches on dysphoric themes, it does not revert everything to the way it was before. The film embraces a pragmatic perspective on body swapping and concludes with an ambiguous yet optimistic ending. The Schaad brothers had a clear vision for the film’s ending, even before fully developing the characters. They believe in the power of cinema to evoke the feeling of something just “feeling right,” akin to stumbling upon a hidden gem in a thrift shop.
“Skin Deep” is a thought-provoking film that challenges traditional body swap narratives. It celebrates diversity, explores identities, and promotes understanding and empathy. So, if you’re looking for a unique cinematic experience that goes beyond the typical body swap comedy, “Skin Deep” is definitely worth a watch.
“Skin Deep” is currently playing in New York City and will open in Los Angeles on February 9th.