In a Glass Cage isn't an easy film to get on with, as despite the fact that it doesn't contain a lot of blood and gore, the film is horrifying thanks to the power of suggestion and the implications of its characters actions. The film takes in themes of the horrors of war as well the implications of child molestation, and puts these two heinous ideas into one character; Klaus. Klaus is a former Nazi doctor turned paedophile who has found himself paralysed from the neck down after attempting to commit suicide. He now lives in a house with his wife and daughter, but must reside at all times inside a glass tube, which is referred to as his 'glass cage'. After breaking into the house, a young man named Angelo blackmails Klaus into taking him on as a nurse, despite the wishes of Klaus' wife who doesn't warm to the young man. However, it soon transpires that Angelo harbours a wish to become like Klaus, and begins to torture the former Nazi by instigating events to reflect what he used to enjoy, and by reading him passages from a diary detailing the man's obsession.
While In a Glass Cage may not be a very enjoyable film, it has to be said that it does give its viewer a lot to think about, and writer-director Agustí Villaronga ensures that his film packs a lot of emotional weight. The way that the director keeps everything bathed in darkness helps to ensure that the look of the film is dark as its subject matter, and this helps to convey the horrific themes on display. The relationship between the doctor and his nurse always makes up the backbone of the movie, and it's also the most interesting aspect as subplots involving the wife and the daughter never reach the same dark highs. The tone of the movie is very serious, and this helped by excellent performances from all concerned. Günter Meisner's performance takes in both evil and regret, as while he doesn't get to do much physical acting; he plays his part well. The main acting plaudits go to David Sust, however, who continually impresses with his role as the nurse; also the meatiest role in the film. It has to be said that this isn't a movie for the feint of heart, as scenes involving young boys are not nice to watch and the nihilistic tone of the movie doesn't make it much fun. Still, if you can stomach unpleasantness; this movie is a treat.
While In a Glass Cage may not be a very enjoyable film, it has to be said that it does give its viewer a lot to think about, and writer-director Agustí Villaronga ensures that his film packs a lot of emotional weight. The way that the director keeps everything bathed in darkness helps to ensure that the look of the film is dark as its subject matter, and this helps to convey the horrific themes on display. The relationship between the doctor and his nurse always makes up the backbone of the movie, and it's also the most interesting aspect as subplots involving the wife and the daughter never reach the same dark highs. The tone of the movie is very serious, and this helped by excellent performances from all concerned. Günter Meisner's performance takes in both evil and regret, as while he doesn't get to do much physical acting; he plays his part well. The main acting plaudits go to David Sust, however, who continually impresses with his role as the nurse; also the meatiest role in the film. It has to be said that this isn't a movie for the feint of heart, as scenes involving young boys are not nice to watch and the nihilistic tone of the movie doesn't make it much fun. Still, if you can stomach unpleasantness; this movie is a treat.