The Devil's Bath.

Oh man. 2024 is perhaps no longer the worst year in recent memory for movies. "The Devil's Bath", advertised as a horror period piece, is for much of its runtime only a gnarly psychological drama. There is horror here, but it's the horror of being a sad girl in 1700s Europe. Unlike "The Witch" and more like "The Witchfinder General" or "The Devils" this movie's scares rest in the knowledge that the events are all too real and commonplace. They may be slightly heightened presentations for dramatic effect, but no artful representation could ever convey the terror of the people who actually had to live through such man made nightmares.

The film focuses on a young woman who is a true believer in her Christian faith. She is surrounded by people whose faith seems purely occidental to the time and place they've been set in. She is trapped in her marriage, living a community that resents her alien presence.

There is some truly grim content in this movie. If you find it hard to deal with the grizzly act committed in the opening it might be best to watch something else. The proceedings are not all centered on physical brutality, but there is no holding back in its darkest moments. Some may also find this movie boring. It is most certainly slow, but i found myself immersed enough in the world and narrative being presented

Anja Plaschg gives what is for my money the best performance I've seen this year. Her performance is remarkable for its subtlety and compassion. She must play many sides of a character you will feel many ways about. Despite its clear feminist ethos Anja's portrayal of Agnes is not one demanding pity from us at all times. She IS odd, but i also found her oddity relatable.

4/5