One of Michael Haneke's main objectives is to make the viewers break their conventional cinema mold. The whodunit part appears to be the primary focus, but soon it becomes secondary.
The real issue Haneke wants to refer to is France behavior towards Algeria. There is a guilty past buried somewhere in the back of the minds of contemporary French conscience and bringing it back seems to be still uncomfortable.
So the question here is, does the stalker vehicle work? I'd have to say yes, but not fully. It is a good technique, however the high degree of ambiguity does not always pay off.
Nevertheless, the film is enjoyable and helped by good performances from all leads, especially Juliette Binoche who elevates her not well scripted role.
The real issue Haneke wants to refer to is France behavior towards Algeria. There is a guilty past buried somewhere in the back of the minds of contemporary French conscience and bringing it back seems to be still uncomfortable.
So the question here is, does the stalker vehicle work? I'd have to say yes, but not fully. It is a good technique, however the high degree of ambiguity does not always pay off.
Nevertheless, the film is enjoyable and helped by good performances from all leads, especially Juliette Binoche who elevates her not well scripted role.