Movie spotlight
Ekstase - Der Prozeß gegen die Satansmädchen
Mondo Cane and the Schoolgirl Report series stand as obvious influences on this occasionally amusing but generally rather tedious exploitation film that alternates between documentary, fake documentary and docudrama. The theme is Satanism and the linking thread is a recreation of what is supposedly the real-life case of a murder and attempted murder of two Munich teenage men by a quartet of girls who had been dabbling in devil worship. During the ensuing trial, the lawyer resorts to dilatory tactics while the hearing is frequently interrupted by the girls breaking into incantation, temper tantrums or shivery fits ostensibly bearing on demonic possession. When the subject of the Manson killings is brought up, the most obnoxious of the defendants breaks in indignantly, claiming that Sharon Tate’s “execution” was justified as she posed dangers to the Satanic community.
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Plot Summary
This documentary film delves into the controversial "process against the devil girls" that occurred in Vienna in the 1970s. It examines the societal anxieties and legal proceedings surrounding a group of young women accused of Satanism and deviant behavior. The film explores the testimonies, the public's reaction, and the underlying social issues that contributed to the sensational trial.
Critical Reception
As a documentary focusing on a sensationalized trial, "Ekstase - Der Prozeß gegen die Satansmädchen" was likely viewed as a commentary on societal fears and media sensationalism. Critical reception would have varied, with some potentially praising its investigative approach and others criticizing its sensationalist elements. Audience reception likely focused on the taboo nature of the subject matter.
What Reviewers Say
Explores the moral panic surrounding alleged Satanic cults in the 1970s.
Investigates the legal and societal aspects of a controversial Viennese trial.
Offers a look into the sensationalism surrounding youth deviance and occult accusations.
Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for this documentary is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The film's title, "Ekstase - Der Prozeß gegen die Satansmädchen" (Ecstasy - The Trial Against the Devil Girls), reflects the sensationalist and provocative nature of the event it documents and the media coverage it received at the time.
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