Welcome to the world of Netflix, where a treasure trove of movies and shows awaits! Among them, the 2015 British drama Woman in Gold, directed by Simon Curtis, stands as a shining gem!
This biographical drama unfolds the remarkable true story of Maria Altmann’s relentless battle to reclaim her family’s stolen legacy—a world-famous painting of her aunt, Adele Bloch-Bauer. This painting, originally named “The Lady in Gold” in a desperate attempt to erase its Jewish heritage, hung for six decades in Vienna’s Belvedere Palace and garnered the title of Austria’s Mona Lisa.
Maria Altmann’s quest was not just about reclaiming what was rightfully hers; it was a quest for justice—a reckoning for the atrocities of the past, including the deaths and art theft perpetrated by the Nazis. In the process, it offered her a chance to find closure for the injustices of the past, including the painful separation from her parents. The official synopsis, as per IMDb, reads:
"“Maria Altmann, an octogenarian Jewish refugee, takes on the Austrian government to recover artwork she believes rightfully belongs to her family.”"
Now, if you’re curious about the talented actors who breathed life into this gripping narrative, you’re in the right place! Join us as we delve into the full cast list and get to know the main cast of Woman in Gold below.
Who stars in Woman in Gold?
Helen Mirren as Maria Altmann
Helen Mirren steps into the role of Maria Altmann in the 2015 British drama Woman in Gold. Maria’s character is a remarkable portrayal of an octogenarian Jewish refugee who, in the wake of World War II, fled Austria, leaving behind her cherished family and all her worldly possessions. Her journey takes a turn after the passing of her sister when she discovers the heartbreaking truth about her family’s priceless artworks stolen by the Nazis during their invasion, including the renowned Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer.
Helen Mirren, the talented British actress known for her diverse roles in films like The Queen, Gosford Park, Hitchcock, and The Last Station, has received numerous accolades for her outstanding acting career, including an Academy Award, four BAFTA Awards, three Golden Globe Awards, and four Emmy Awards. To stay connected with Helen Mirren, you can follow her on Instagram under the handle: “@helenmirren.”
Ryan Reynolds as Randol Schoenberg
Ryan Reynolds takes on the role of Randol Schoenberg in Woman in Gold, a young attorney who joins Maria Altmann in her quest to recover the famous Klimt painting seized by the Austrian government. Starting as a legal underdog grappling with financial struggles and the responsibilities of family life, Schoenberg’s character evolves throughout the story. Despite his initial social awkwardness, he wholeheartedly commits to Maria’s cause, driven by a determination to serve justice.
Ryan Reynolds, the versatile Canadian actor, producer, and entrepreneur, is renowned for his roles in popular films such as the Deadpool series, The Proposal, Green Lantern, and Free Guy, showcasing his ability to portray a wide range of characters.
For those interested in staying connected with Ryan Reynolds, you can follow him on Instagram under the handle “@vancityreynolds.”
Other actors to star in the gripping drama, as per IMDb, include:
- Daniel Brühl as Hubertus Czernin
- Katie Holmes as Pam Schoenberg
- Tatiana Maslany as Young Maria Altmann
- Max Irons as Fritz Altmann
- Charles Dance as Sherman
- Antje Traue as Adele Bloch-Bauer
- Elizabeth McGovern as Judge Florence Cooper
- Jonathan Pryce as Chief Justice Rehnquist
- Frances Fisher as Barbara Schoenberg
- Moritz Bleibtreu as Gustav Klimt
- Tom Schilling as Heinrich
- Allan Corduner as Gustav Bloch-Bauer
- Henry Goodman as Ferdinand Bloch-Bauer
- Nina Kunzendorf as Therese Bloch-Bauer
- Alma Hasun as Luise
- Nellie Schilling as Child Maria
Watch the actors in action below, in the official trailer for the Woman in Gold!