Sisi & I (2023) User Reviews

Going down

[kosmasp · 8/10 · 13 April 2024]

Well I guess it is south so it is "down" - so no pun intended (and maybe I meant something more too). I thought with a title like this, it would play in a earlier timeline - or I thought it would be quite different. But this is quite female empowering - even if not all and everything is going to go their way, the two main women/characters are on quite the trip.

And choosing Greece as location to live freely - I can only support that. Sun is out, the weather makes you feel less melancholic I reckon - that said, the two women encounter a lot of people, not just locals. And the way they conduct themselves .. well you'll find out what I mean by that and what that means for them. One of the main actresses here made waves with her debut movie ... and again this year .. being in two movies nominated for an Oscar ... not bad for a non English speaking individual I would say ...

Sisi, Take Two

[tributarystu · 7/10 · 28 May 2024]

I liked Corsage (2022) very much, so I was interested to see another take on the travails of Empress Elisabeth of Austria. While Sisi & Ich doesn't reach quite the same level, it still manages to leave its mark through its distinctive style.

Frauke Finsterwalder's film is not so dissimilar in spirit, with historical irreverence and chic visuals accompanying the story of Sisi and Irma Sztáray, her last lady-in-waiting. It's easy to see the appeal of a strong feminist interpretation of such a compelling historical figure, whose life was laced with tragedy. There's also more context here, as we explore the later years of Elisabeth's life.

Parts of the story and the themes brought back flashbacks from Corsage, but the focus is ultimately on the relationship and friendship between the two central characters. Pre-fame Sandra Hüller stars alongside Susanne Wolff, and the two have a captivating dynamic, which easily prompts larger questions about privilege and loyalty.

The movie doesn't shy away from an anachronistic soundtrack, which didn't always work for me, but still felt coherent in the stylistic approach. The cinematography, in particular, is beautifully lush, making for memorably tranquil visuals that really elevate the final cut.

Sisi does lose steam as it's stretched out thin over more than two hours. However, a clever ending paradoxically imbues it with life, leaving the distinctive bittersweet aftertaste of a worthwhile watch.