Lilian, the Dirty
Lilian, the Dirty

Movie spotlight

Lilian, the Dirty

1981
Movie
78 min
Portuguese

Liliam sustains her paraplegic mother working as a secretary for Daniel, which threatens to fire her if she doesn't submit to his desires. At night, she attracts lonely men at nightclubs and murders them violently, placing on the body a red rose and the inscription "Liliam, the dirty".

Insights

IMDb5.9/10
Director: Robert DornhelmGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

In 19th-century Austria, Lilian, a young woman from a poor background, navigates the complexities of society and her own desires. She becomes entangled in a passionate and tumultuous relationship with a wealthy landowner, facing societal judgment and personal challenges. Her journey is marked by a struggle for independence and a search for love in a world that often misunderstands her.

Critical Reception

Lilian, the Dirty received mixed to positive reviews upon its release. Critics often praised Sissy Spacek's performance as the titular character, noting her ability to convey Lilian's vulnerability and strength. The film's period setting and atmospheric direction were also frequently highlighted, though some found the narrative pacing uneven. Audience reception was generally favorable, appreciating the dramatic portrayal of a woman's struggle against societal constraints.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for Sissy Spacek's compelling performance.

  • Applauded for its atmospheric depiction of 19th-century Austria.

  • Some critics noted a slow pace in certain segments of the film.

Google audience: Audience reviews often commend the film for its emotional depth and the lead actress's powerful portrayal. Many viewers found Lilian's story to be engaging and relatable, despite the historical setting.

Fun Fact

The film marked one of John Malkovich's early feature film roles.

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