The Real Beauty and the Beast

The documentary presents a fascinating narrative about Petrus Gonsalvus, often referred to as the hairy hero of Beauty and the Beast. It examines his life in 1500s Italy, where his condition known as hypertrichosis turned him into a sensation. The film intertwines elements of art, arranged marriage, and the historical context of the era, including figures like Catherine de' Medici.

With a focus on themes of identity and societal perception, The Real Beauty and the Beast provides an engaging exploration of a figure who straddles the line between reality and fairy tale. The documentary is supported by insights from Tatjana Velimirov and Julia Riedler, who contribute to the narrative's depth and understanding.