Baptism

A young man is sent to a boarding school where he is subjected to psychological and physical abuse. He forms a bond with another student and together they plan their escape. Their attempts are met with increasing brutality from the institution.

Baptism is a controversial and disturbing film that explores themes of abuse and repression. It received mixed to negative reviews, with some critics praising its raw intensity and others condemning its graphic nature and bleak outlook.

• Praised for its unsettling atmosphere and unflinching portrayal of abuse.

• Criticized for its gratuitous violence and nihilistic tone.

• Considered a challenging and divisive arthouse film.

Google audience: Audience reception is largely unavailable or unrated. Those who have commented often find the film to be extremely bleak and disturbing, with a significant portion finding it difficult to watch due to its intense and graphic content.

Ulli Lommel, the director of Baptism, would later become known for his work in the German horror and exploitation film scene, including co-directing 'Tenderness of the Wolves'.