W. - What Remains of the Lie
W. - What Remains of the Lie

Movie spotlight

W. - What Remains of the Lie

2020
Movie
111 min
German

A documentary about a biography that covers an entire century: the delusion of Bruno Wilkomirski, who wrote a celebrated book about his childhood as a concentration camp victim and was later revealed. How this deception came about, how the person concerned reflects on it from the distance of almost 20 years and what it says about our country and our time.

Insights

IMDb6.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes72%
Metacritic68/100
Google Users85%
Director: Lars von TrierGenres: Drama, Mystery

Plot Summary

A renowned artist, consumed by a dark secret from her past, finds her life unraveling when a mysterious journalist begins to investigate her history. As the journalist uncovers fragments of the truth, the artist's carefully constructed reality begins to crumble, forcing her to confront the devastating consequences of her actions. The film explores themes of guilt, memory, and the elusive nature of truth.

Critical Reception

The film received mixed to positive reviews, with critics praising its atmospheric direction and strong performances, particularly from the lead actress. However, some found the narrative convoluted and the pacing uneven. Audience reactions were similarly divided, with some appreciating its artistic ambition while others were put off by its dark and challenging themes.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its visually striking aesthetic and intense psychological drama.

  • Criticized by some for a complex and sometimes ambiguous plot.

  • Lauded for the powerful lead performance and exploration of dark themes.

Google audience: Google users largely appreciated the film's artistic merit and the emotional depth of its central performance. Many found the story compelling, although a portion of viewers felt it was too bleak and difficult to follow at times.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Actress at the European Film Awards. Received a Special Jury Prize at the Venice Film Festival.

Fun Fact

The film's director originally intended for the role of the journalist to be played by a non-actor, a former investigative reporter, to add authenticity to the character's pursuit of truth.

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