@celeste_writes
A patient, formally daring work — the cinematography lingers on empty rooms longer than most audiences will tolerate, but those who stay are rewarded with the most haunting final act of the year.
After the death of her abusive father, lonely librarian Martha finds herself caught up in a strange, sadomasochistic relationship with a monstrous husband whom she begins to suspect may be trying to murder her.
Quick Stats
7.0
TMDB Rating
71
Votes
1h 56m
Runtime
—
Budget
—
Box Office
—
Return
Key Crew
DirectorRainer Werner Fassbinder
WriterRainer Werner Fassbinder
CinematographyMichael Ballhaus
ComposerManfred Oelschlegel
EditorLiesgret Schmitt-Klink
Production DesignKurt Raab
Produced by
Pro-ject FilmproduktionWDR
Where to Watch
Streaming
Criterion ChannelSee more on TMDB → JustWatch
Critics & Reviews
3 featured@jhalberg
I walked in expecting another genre exercise and walked out feeling like I'd been eavesdropping on a confession. The lead performance is genuinely singular — a career-defining turn.
@priya_a
A few too many scenes feel borrowed from a better film, but the soundtrack and the production design carry the rest. Solid recommendation for fans of slow-burn European thrillers.
Cast
Margit Carstensen
Martha
Karlheinz Böhm
Helmut
Barbara Valentin
Marianne
Peter Chatel
Kaiser
Gisela Fackeldey
Mother Heyer
Adrian Hoven
Father Heyer
Ortrud Beginnen
Erna
Wolfgang Schenck
Meister
Günter Lamprecht
Dr. Salomon
El Hedi ben Salem
Hotel Guest
Rudolf Lenz
Porter
Kurt Raab
Secretary
Elma Karlowa
Waitress
Heide Simon
Nurse
Lilo Pempeit
