Review of The Piano Teacher (2001) by Jordanlayton — 30 Apr 2020

This was a difficult watch but definitely worth it. Haneke expresses the dangers of both repression and complete devotion to craft through these characters whose actors give such incredible performances.

I'm going to need more than a hot take to fully absorb what Haneke is trying to say with this film, but on the surface level alone there are some beautifully shot and performed piano sequences as well as oppositely horrifying scenes performed so genuinely.

The range of abilities on display by these two actors (Isabelle Huppert and Benoit Magimel) is shocking in the best way. I will definitely be seeking out more of Haneke's films, Huppert's performances, and Magimel's performances in the future.