The Strange Ones
The Strange Ones

Movie spotlight

The Strange Ones

1950
Movie
107 min
French

Elisabeth and her brother Paul live isolated from much of the world after Paul is injured in a snowball fight. As a coping mechanism, the two conjure up a hermetic dream of their own making. Their relationship, however, isn't exactly wholesome. Jealousy and a malevolent undercurrent intrude on their fantasy when Elisabeth invites the strange Agathe to stay with them -- and Paul is immediately attracted to her.

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Director: G.W. PabstGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

A young boy named Hans lives a lonely life in a remote German village, struggling with the trauma of his past and the expectations of his strict guardian. He finds solace in his imagination and in encounters with a traveling puppeteer. As Hans grapples with his identity and the harsh realities of his environment, he must confront the figures from his past and decide his own path forward.

Critical Reception

G.W. Pabst's final film, 'The Strange Ones' is a somber and introspective drama that explores themes of childhood trauma, repression, and the search for identity. While its mature themes and deliberate pacing were not universally embraced by all audiences at the time, it is recognized by critics for its psychological depth and Pabst's characteristic nuanced direction.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its sensitive portrayal of a troubled youth and its exploration of complex psychological themes.

  • Noted for G.W. Pabst's masterful direction and atmospheric storytelling.

  • Some found the film's tone bleak and its narrative challenging.

Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce for this lesser-known film, but where available, it's appreciated for its artistic merit and historical significance in Pabst's filmography.

Fun Fact

G.W. Pabst, a renowned director of German cinema known for films like 'The Threepenny Opera' and 'Pandora's Box,' directed 'The Strange Ones' as his final feature film.

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TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

"Paul" (Edouard Dermithe) is a young man who comes off rather badly after a snowball fight; one finds it's mark necessitating a visit from their doctor who advises bedrest - on a pretty permanent basis! He is to be looked after by his siste...