The Devil's Bath (2024) User Reviews

Subversive examination of mental illness that translates well into the current time

[tarikson1 · 8/10 · 9 March 2024]

I've just seen this movie at the Viennese Gartenbaukino. Going into this, I was expecting some sort of throwback mythical horror movie a la The Witch, instead I was surprised by the choices in storytelling and direction. This is definitely not a film for the faint of heart but I applaud the filmmakers for making very bold decisions in their depictions of female depression in a strictly catholic rural setting. This film might feel slow to some audiences but it absolutely pays off in the final third. What makes this movie even more engaging besides historical accuracy and the attention for detail is the fact that it was researched and has a firm historical background. The rural setting intensifies the main character's feeling of isolation and despair and adds emotional heaviness to the viewer's experience. If you have enjoyed tge filmmakers' previous works and are not too squeamish I heavily recommend this movie.

"Des Teufels Bad" Wins Silver Bear at Berlinale: A Dark Dive into 18th-Century Depression

[merlpe · 8/10 · 26 February 2024]

Des Teufels Bad, directed by Veronika Franz and Severin Fiala, offers a haunting glimpse into 18th-century depression, focusing on the desperate measures women took to escape their suffering. The film, recognized at the Berlinale with a Silver Bear for Martin Gschlacht's exceptional cinematography, delves deep into the theme of "indirect suicide" where individuals, to avoid the stigma of suicide, would commit crimes hoping for execution. Set against the backdrop of a rigidly Catholic Upper Austria, it portrays the protagonist Agnes's struggle with depression and societal constraints, leading her to a drastic decision. The narrative, rooted in historical court records, exposes the harsh realities of the time, making a compelling statement on the enduring nature of human despair and societal expectations. Anja Plaschg's portrayal of Agnes adds depth to this vivid historical tapestry, making Des Teufels Bad a powerful exploration of a dark chapter in European history.

Surprising in its historical relevance

[tobiasi · 9/10 · 22 March 2024]

I have seen films by Fiala & Franz and thus expected a well-crafted horror/thriller, which, judging by the trailer, could dive into the supernatural aspects of heaven and hell. I was quite surprised that the film is not only historically inspired but in itself focuses on a part of history not commonly referred to in public discourse. It is a grand elaboration on depression and mental illness in a time where such concepts were unknown and barely treated; in combination with the fierce believe of damnation after suicide, this led to horrific solutions.

Admittedly, the film starts of a bit reluctantly and slow, but staying is even more so worth it as the film continuously builds up, especially in second half. A small critique from my personal Upper Austrian POV: While Plaschg does a wonderful acting job, her dialect falls out of place in the otherwise relatively accurately coined Upper Austrian way of speech.