Italian
A deep dive into ’The Sparrow in the Chimney’: A family drama with a twist
A new cinematic journey
Ramon Zürcher’s latest film, The Sparrow in the Chimney, has unveiled its trailer ahead of its premiere at the Locarno Film Festival. This dysfunctional family portrait promises to delve deep into the complexities of familial relationships, blending drama with elements of psychological horror.
Watch the trailer for The Sparrow in the Chimney
The story unfolds
In this film, we follow Karen, portrayed by Maren Eggert, who is known for her role in the sci-fi romance I’m Your Man. Karen lives with her husband Markus and their children in her childhood home. The plot thickens as her sister Jule and her family come to visit, and the presence of their deceased mother looms large over the gathering. The family is preparing for a birthday party, but old traumas resurface, turning what should be a joyous occasion into a tense and revealing encounter.
Exploring the depths of family dynamics
Zürcher has a knack for exploring the dark corners of human relationships. He is not afraid to create characters that are complex and not necessarily likable. Karen, for instance, is not just a “bad mother” but a struggling, sensitive one. This nuanced portrayal allows the audience to see the multifaceted nature of her character.
The director’s previous work, The Strange Little Cat, dealt with passive-aggressive conflicts. In The Sparrow in the Chimney, Zürcher takes it a step further by making these conflicts more explicit. The characters say horrible things to each other, often in a way that is so over-the-top that it borders on dark humor. This blend of humor and sadness creates a unique viewing experience that resonates deeply with the audience.
A symphony of contrasts
Music plays a significant role in the film, with Balz Bachmann providing a score that ranges from classical tunes to electronic madness. This contrast in music mirrors the film’s thematic contrasts. Zürcher recalls his experience watching Mulholland Drive, where a seemingly straightforward story takes a sudden, jaw-dropping turn. Similarly, in The Sparrow in the Chimney, a perfect summer day in a nice house hides the dark undercurrents of the family’s past.
Connecting with the audience
Zürcher emphasizes the importance of reaching the audience without compromising his artistic vision. Almost everyone has a family, and this universal experience helps viewers connect with the film. This connection allows Zürcher to experiment with his storytelling while keeping the audience engaged.
Blurring the lines between reality and fantasy
As the family’s day becomes increasingly odd, reality begins to blend with fantasy. Zürcher draws inspiration from the horror genre, creating a haunted house story where the past coexists with the present. The presence of Karen’s strict mother is felt throughout the film, adding to the eerie atmosphere.
A story of liberation
The film is not just about horror but also about liberation. Karen must conduct an exorcism of sorts, ridding herself of the “demon” of the past and hidden desires. This process of shedding her old skin and rising like a phoenix from the ashes symbolizes a new beginning. The film suggests that traumas do not just stay in the past; they interact with us, and we must learn to make them invisible by talking about them.
Final thoughts
The Sparrow in the Chimney is a compelling exploration of family dynamics, psychological trauma, and the process of liberation. With its blend of dark humor, horror elements, and deep emotional resonance, it promises to be a unique cinematic experience. For those interested in films that challenge and engage, this is one to watch.
Watch the trailer for The Sparrow in the Chimney
Image Credit: Alex Hasskerl
