As far as I know, “Devot” [Eng. Title: Devotion] appears to be the only released feature film of Igor Zaritzky. But unless he had given up film making, for his talents he should have made more films by now – he has what it takes to be a good director.
This film was billed a psychological thriller. Agreed, it isn’t a perfect film – we have too many different strands of thought, and not all get to be followed through to their completion. But there are some great ideas lurking in them – if only they were developed further. The film also could have worked better if it was constructed as psychological drama as opposed to a thriller. The film’s beginning and the end make sense, but the meaty middle bit meanders and looses track. A tightened screenplay would have made into a rather good drama instead. Apart from this, it is actually very well put together in terms of cinematography, editing, lighting and sound. Importantly you have great chemistry between the lead actors who appear on screen for almost the whole duration of the film. It’s one thing definitely going for it, and at least for that reason, the film is worth checking out. Recommended Viewing.
Storyline:
The film starts in a similar vein to “La Ardilla Roja” posted recently – the only difference is, here we have a young woman, Anja trying to jump off a bridge, only to be noticed by a passing driver, Henry. But instead of being concerned, he makes her believe he’d taken her for a prostitute, and enquires about her fee. Anja plays along and gets in the car, and they end up in Henry’s place where most of the events unfold. We see each of them having something to hide, and Henry getting increasingly frustrated with Anja’s mind games. The ending won’t be to everyone’s liking, particularly if they’re fed on a diet of feel-good films from Hollywood – this one is provocative, and very German. Anja is excellently played by Annett Renneberg – there’s something ‘wickedly’ charming about her that despite her outrageous behaviour, you couldn’t help but fall in love with her character as the film progresses.
The Nudity: Annett Renneberg and Simon Böer
The film features scenes of a sado-masochistic nature and includes nudity. The DVD also comes with an extended cut of the main love scene.
Annett Renneberg and Simon Böer from the 2003 German drama, “Devot”.
.
.
