The Devil's Bath
In 1750 Austria, a deeply religious woman named Agnes has just married her beloved, but her mind and heart soon grow heavy as her life becomes a long list of chores and expectations. Day after day, she is increasingly trapped in a murky and lonely path leading to evil thoughts, until the possibility of committing a shocking act of violence seems like the only way out of her inner prison.
Insights
Plot Summary
In 18th-century Austria, Elisabeth, tormented by her unhappy marriage, finds solace in a clandestine affair. Her desperation leads her to confess to a priest, but her confession inadvertently paints her as a dangerous woman, setting in motion a chain of events that spiral into darkness.
Critical Reception
The Devil's Bath has been met with critical acclaim for its intense atmosphere, chilling performances, and unflinching exploration of female rage and societal constraints. Critics have lauded its psychological horror elements and the directors' masterful direction, often comparing it to acclaimed folk horror films.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its suffocating atmosphere and visceral portrayal of female rage.
- Anja Plaschg delivers a mesmerizing and powerful performance.
- The film's unsettling visuals and psychological depth are highly effective.
Google audience: Audiences have largely appreciated the film's dark and atmospheric storytelling, with many highlighting the powerful lead performance and the unsettling nature of the narrative. Some viewers found the bleakness of the subject matter intense, but overall, it was well-received for its artistic merit and disturbing themes.
Awards & Accolades
Premiered at the 74th Berlin International Film Festival in the Competition section.
Fun Fact
The film was shot in various remote and atmospheric locations in Austria, enhancing its authentic and eerie folk horror aesthetic.
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