DAU. Natascha & Degeneration - MARCO STREBINGER

DAU. Natasha & Degeneration
Posters, Press Kits, Marketing Materials

Films that have already caused controversy before anyone has seen them.

The DAU project, directed by Ilya Khrzhanovsky, is a radical form of cinema that blurs fiction and reality. It explores the depths of the psyche and (in)human extremes. Set in a meticulously recreated Soviet Science Institute, it presents a provocative tale about power, love, and an analysis of (stalinistic) totalitarianism.

My poster designs focused on capturing the intense emotions and oppressive atmosphere experienced under such a regime. By using stark visuals, muted colors, and strong contrasts, I aimed to evoke the sense of confinement and resilience felt by the characters.

Berlinale Poster

Berlinale Poster

"DAU. Natasha" is one of the first films from this project to gain significant attention. It premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival in 2020 and won the Silver Bear for Outstanding Artistic Contribution. The film follows Natasha, who runs a cafeteria near the DAU institute. Set in the early 1950s, the story focuses on Natasha's interactions with soldiers, scientists, and bureaucrats. It culminates in her interrogation by Soviet authorities after a night of heavy drinking and a sexual encounter with a foreign scientist.

"DAU. Degeneration" is another significant part of the project, running over six hours and depicting the chaotic final days of the DAU institute. The film shows various scientific and occult experiments conducted in a secret Soviet institute, with real scientists and conceptual artists contributing to the portrayal. The project blurs the lines between reality and fiction, with participants living in character for extended periods.

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Press Kit Spreads

My designs focused on capturing the intense emotions and oppressive atmosphere experienced under such a regime. By using stark visuals, muted colors, and strong contrasts, I aimed to evoke the sense of confinement and resilience felt by the characters.

Party Invitation Front

Party Invitation Back

"The first cinematic project about isolation, filmed in isolation, for people in isolation". — Ilya Khrzhanovskiy

Party Invitation Front

Party Invitation Back

Working closely with the production team at Coproduction Office, we ensured all design elements matched the film's themes. The posters and press kits were well-received, accurately reflecting the film's compelling storylines and emotional intensity.