Watch Berlin Syndrome

Berlin Syndrome is a 2017 horror-thriller film directed by Cate Shortland and stars Teresa Palmer, Max Riemelt, and Matthias Habich. The film tells the story of an Australian photographer named Clare (Palmer) who is on a solo trip to Berlin. She meets a charismatic English teacher named Andi (Riemelt) and they hit it off. However, their romantic spark soon turns into a nightmare as Andi becomes her captor.

The film is a slow-burning psychological thriller that is equal parts disturbing and captivating. The initial attraction between the two leads feels genuine and organic, and the chemistry between Palmer and Riemelt is palpable. However, things take a dark turn when Andi locks Clare in his apartment and refuses to let her leave.

What follows is a harrowing tale of survival as Clare fights for her life and her own sanity. The film's themes of power dynamics, control, and manipulation are expertly explored through the relationship between Clare and Andi. As the film progresses, the tension builds and viewers are left wondering whether Clare will make it out alive.

One of the things that makes Berlin Syndrome so effective is its excellent use of setting. Berlin is depicted as a cold, dark, and impersonal city, which serves to heighten the sense of isolation and helplessness that Clare experiences. The use of claustrophobic, tight shots of the apartment also adds to the film's overall atmosphere of unease.

Palmer delivers a standout performance as Clare, perfectly capturing the character's fear, resilience, and determination. Riemelt is equally impressive as Andi, delivering a chilling and nuanced portrayal of a man who is at once charming and terrifying.

The film also touches on themes of identity and belonging, as Clare struggles to hold onto her sense of self while being held captive. This struggle is embodied in her photography, which she continues to pursue while imprisoned, transforming her confinement into a form of artistic expression.

Overall, Berlin Syndrome is a haunting and expertly crafted film that will stay with viewers long after the credits roll. Its exploration of power dynamics and the human psyche is both thought-provoking and deeply unsettling. The performances by Palmer and Riemelt are top-notch, and the film's use of setting is both impressive and effective. It's a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers and horror films alike.

Berlin Syndrome is a 2017 mystery with a runtime of 1 hour and 56 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.3 and a MetaScore of 70.