
She lived as boldly as she painted. Born into a wealthy Polish family, she conquered Paris, made her mark in Hollywood and became an icon of modern art. Today, her distinctive Art Deco paintings are coveted by collectors including Madonna, Barbra Streisand and Jack Nicholson, while her influence continues to shape fashion, music, design and popular culture.
Directed by Julie Rubio and narrated by Anjelica Huston, this visually rich documentary explores the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of a pioneering Polish painter whose works command millions at auction and whose story inspired the 2024 Broadway musical. From her privileged beginnings in Warsaw and rise to fame in 1920s Paris, the film reveals the complex woman behind the iconic paintings, drawing on newly discovered archival material, family interviews and insights from art historians and curators
“Groundbreaking... Visually stunning.”–The Bay Area Reporter
"A captivating, empowering, well-edited and fascinating documentary.”—NYCMovieGuru
“Visually stunning and sweeping feature documentary”—The Hollywood Reporter
“Essential viewing for anyone who cares about art.”–The Contending
AWARDS AND ACCOLADES
WINNER: Best Documentary, Paris Clown International Film Festival, 2025
WINNER: Best Cinematography– Svetlana Cvetko, United Nations Association Film Festival(UNAFF), 2025
SELECTION: Mill Valley Film Festival – World Premiere, 2024
SELECTION: Krakow Film Festival, 2025
SELECTION: New York Polish Film Festival, 2025
SELECTION: United Nations Association Film Festival (UNAFF), 2025
SELECTION: New York Jewish Film Festival, 2025
SELECTION: Festival Cine por Mujeres Madrid, 2025
THE TRUE STORY OF TAMARA DE LEMPICKA
documentary I 2024 I USA I 96 minutes
Original Title: THE TRUE STORY OF TAMARA DE LEMPICKA & THE ARTOF SURVIVAL
Director: Julie Rubio
Cast: Victoria De Lempicka, Marisa De Lempicka, Paula Birnbaum, Cristina de Lempicka, Angelica Huston, Eden Espinosa
Age recommendation: Mature Audience 15+
Language: Polish with English subtitles


