The acclaimed directors of Goodnight Mommy and The Lodge, Veronika Franz and Severin Fiala, are back with another gripping tale that strays closer to real-life horrors than their previous genre twists. The Devil's Bath, which premiered at Berlinale earlier this year, takes us on a chilling journey through 1750s Austria. This film, featuring Anja Plaschg, David Scheid, and Maria Hofstätter, delves into the psyche of a woman whose desperate bid for freedom leads her to commit an unthinkable act.
In The Devil's Bath, we follow Agnes, a deeply religious woman newly married to her beloved. As her life becomes consumed by an endless cycle of chores and societal expectations, Agnes finds herself trapped in a murky, isolating existence. Her thoughts grow darker, and she begins to contemplate a violent act as the only escape from her inner turmoil. This narrative gives voice to the invisible and unheard women of rural Europe, drawing from historical court records to highlight a shocking, lesser-known chapter of European history.
Critics have praised the film for its raw and unflinching portrayal of Agnes's plight. Savina Petkova, in her review, noted, “Early Modern times were messy: Europe was finding its footing in rationalism, seeking independence from the centuries-long spiritual yoke of Catholicism and Protestantism… But the freedom to live or die was certainly a luxury for many––especially women caught in the patriarchal webs of rural life. Ewa Lizlfellner was one such woman who didn't want to live, but to die.”
For those eager to witness this haunting story, The Devil's Bath opens at IFC Center on July 21 and will be available for streaming on Shudder starting July 28. With its powerful performances and historical depth, this film is a must-watch for anyone fascinated by the darker aspects of human history and the resilience of the human spirit.
Check out the trailer below and prepare to be transported to a time when the struggle for personal freedom often led down the darkest paths.
