This barely seen study of psychopathology may well be the mediums final word on the subject. Those who think a film such as Silence of the Lambs ticks the serial-killer boxes should be warned of this astounding Austrian shocker.
Having been released from prison, we are invited to spend a night with a truly terrifying and different kind of monster, as his compulsion to kill (and therefore achieve a long-time repressed sexual climax) becomes too much and we witness/endure the torment he inflicts on a random family.
There is no glamour to be found here. No preordained set pieces to guide us through. The killers actions clumsy and cold. The minimal soundtrack, lack of on-screen dialogue (the killer's voice-over provides background detail throughout, however), repetitive use of location, and outstanding kinetic camera work, all add up to what is an undoubtedly intense viewing experience. It is to Kargl's credit (and talent) that it never once descends into exploitation.
This goes beyond Henry:Portrait of a Serial Killer, more akin to Zulawski's Possession in as far as presenting mental instability on screen. This portrait will freeze you to the bone.
Having been released from prison, we are invited to spend a night with a truly terrifying and different kind of monster, as his compulsion to kill (and therefore achieve a long-time repressed sexual climax) becomes too much and we witness/endure the torment he inflicts on a random family.
There is no glamour to be found here. No preordained set pieces to guide us through. The killers actions clumsy and cold. The minimal soundtrack, lack of on-screen dialogue (the killer's voice-over provides background detail throughout, however), repetitive use of location, and outstanding kinetic camera work, all add up to what is an undoubtedly intense viewing experience. It is to Kargl's credit (and talent) that it never once descends into exploitation.
This goes beyond Henry:Portrait of a Serial Killer, more akin to Zulawski's Possession in as far as presenting mental instability on screen. This portrait will freeze you to the bone.