Review of Berlin Syndrome (2017) by Trent L — 25 Sep 2017

This movie is a lesser known psychological thriller that is now streaming on Netflix, and as psychological thrillers go, I highly recommend it. It's skillfully crafted and wonderfully acted. The story is about an Australian tourist in Berlin who is "abducted" (in a manner of speaking) by a handsome stranger.

It's like the thinking man's "Hostel", but without the torture. The premise sounds typical and a little worn out, but this film puts a new spin on the kidnapping/captivity trope, where equal attention is given to both the prey and the predator.

It's a novel idea and it really works, especially as a tool for character development. These kinds of movies are pretty much ALWAYS shown entirely from the point of view of the victim, and it's nice that this movie that gives you a glimpse into the life of the abductor as much as the abductee.

As the title would suggest, the film plays with the idea of sympathizing with the captor... not only for character in the movie, but for the audience as well. It happens slowly and subtly, just like it would in real life.

There are some tense parts, but this movie isn't all that suspenseful - as a psychological thriller, it is definitely more psychological than thrilling, and plays out more like a drama. Also, there is a quietness to this film that's surprising, it feels somber and serious, which contributes to the realistic feel of the movie.

Some may find it tedious or boring at a full two hours, but I did not... it takes its time and is deliberate with its pacing. The movie has its flaws - there are a bunch of holes that are pretty easy to poke in the overall concept as well as how it all shakes out, including a few 'come on, man!" moments that are so abundant in typical horror/suspense films.

.. and that's disappointing, because otherwise this film really rises above the typical schlock you get with that genre. I am somewhat confused on what message this movie was supposed to have, it seems a little confused and contradictory as to what it's trying to say.

.. but still, it's so well crafted, I will forgive it for that. I had never heard of this director (Cate Shortland), but I must say that I'm impressed with what she accomplished with this film.