Italian
Austria’s Oscar contender: A deep dive into ‘The Devil’s Bath’
A period thriller with a psychological twist
The Devil’s Bath, a gripping period psychological thriller, has been selected by Austria as its official entry for the international feature film category at the Oscars. This film, which captivated audiences at the Berlin Film Festival, earned the Silver Bear for best cinematography, thanks to the exceptional work of Martin Gschlacht.
Directed by the talented duo Veronika Franz and Severin Fiala, known for their previous work on Goodnight Mommy, The Devil’s Bath continues their tradition of creating haunting and thought-provoking cinema. Goodnight Mommy had previously represented Austria in the Oscar race and was later remade into an English-language film starring Naomi Watts.
A haunting tale set in 1750s Austria
Set against the backdrop of rural Austria in 1750, The Devil’s Bath stars Anja Plaschg, a rising star in the music world known as Soap & Skin. Plaschg delivers a powerful performance as Agnes, a young married woman trapped in a world devoid of emotions and dominated by rigid expectations. Agnes, a deeply pious and sensitive individual, spirals into a profound depression, leading her to commit a shocking act of violence as a desperate escape from her inner turmoil.
The film draws inspiration from historical records, shedding light on the harrowing experiences of women who, in their desperation, resorted to murder as a means to avoid the damnation associated with suicide. The Devil’s Bath poignantly explores the oppressive religious dogma and societal taboos that defined women’s lives during that era.
A global reach
The Devil’s Bath has garnered international attention, with Shudder acquiring the rights for North America, the U.K., Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand. The film has also been sold worldwide by Playtime, ensuring that its powerful story reaches a global audience.
Produced by Ulrich Seidl Filmproduktion in collaboration with Heimatfilm and Coop99 Filmproduktion, The Devil’s Bath is a testament to the strength of Austrian cinema and its ability to tell compelling, emotionally resonant stories.
Personal reflections for cinema enthusiasts
For those who appreciate cinema that delves deep into the human psyche and explores the darker aspects of history, The Devil’s Bath is a must-watch. The film’s meticulous attention to historical detail, combined with its psychological depth, makes it a standout in the genre of period thrillers.
Anja Plaschg’s portrayal of Agnes is both haunting and heartbreaking, capturing the character’s inner conflict and desperation with remarkable authenticity. The film’s exploration of religious oppression and the extreme measures taken by women to escape their circumstances is both thought-provoking and deeply moving.
For fans of Veronika Franz and Severin Fiala’s previous work, The Devil’s Bath offers a continuation of their exploration of complex, often disturbing themes. The film’s cinematography, which earned it the Silver Bear at the Berlinale, is visually stunning, capturing the bleak beauty of rural Austria and the oppressive atmosphere that surrounds Agnes.
In-depth analysis
The Devil’s Bath is not just a film about historical events; it’s a commentary on the enduring impact of religious and societal oppression on women. The film’s depiction of Agnes’s descent into madness and violence is a powerful reminder of the lengths to which individuals will go when pushed to their limits.
The film’s historical accuracy and attention to detail add a layer of authenticity that enhances its impact. By grounding the story in real historical events, the filmmakers create a narrative that is both engaging and educational, shedding light on a dark chapter of history that is often overlooked.
For those interested in exploring the themes and historical context of The Devil’s Bath further, the film’s official trailer and information page can be found here.
A cinematic experience not to be missed
In a world where cinema often shies away from uncomfortable truths, The Devil’s Bath stands out as a bold and unflinching exploration of human suffering and resilience. Its selection as Austria’s official Oscar entry is a testament to its powerful storytelling and exceptional craftsmanship.
For those who seek out films that challenge and provoke, The Devil’s Bath is an essential addition to your watchlist. Its haunting narrative, combined with its stunning cinematography and powerful performances, make it a film that will linger in your mind long after the credits roll.
Experience the trailer and delve deeper into the world of The Devil’s Bath here.
