Watch Il mistero di Oberwald

The movie Il mistero di Oberwald is a 1980 Italian drama film directed by Michelangelo Antonioni. The film is based on the play of the same name by Jean Cocteau. The film stars Monica Vitti, Paolo Bonacelli, and Franco Branciaroli. The movie takes place in an unidentified country and time, where a queen (Monica Vitti) is widowed after her husband is assassinated. Soon after, a rebel leader (Franco Branciaroli) who is responsible for her husband's death appears at the queen's castle, seeking refuge from the government forces that are pursuing him. After the queen grants him asylum, the two begin a complex relationship that is fraught with tension and intrigue.

The story is set entirely in the queen's castle, which is a dark and eerie place that adds to the ominous atmosphere of the movie. The sets and costumes are designed in a gothic style, with a lot of black and gray tones and heavy use of shadows and lighting to create a haunting and mysterious mood. The camera work is slow and deliberate, with long shots and still frames that emphasize the static nature of the queen's existence.

The film explores the themes of power, love, and death. The queen is a powerful figure, but she is also lonely and isolated. The arrival of the rebel leader brings some excitement and passion into her life, but it also puts her in danger. As they spend time together, they share their dreams and fears, and their conversations become more and more intimate. Yet, there is always an underlying tension between them, as they are aware that their relationship is doomed from the start.

As the government forces close in on the castle, the tension mounts and the atmosphere becomes increasingly claustrophobic. The queen and the rebel leader are forced to confront their own mortality, and they start to realize that their love for each other may be their only salvation. The ending of the movie is ambiguous, leaving the viewer to interpret the events in their own way.

Overall, Il mistero di Oberwald is a haunting and atmospheric movie that explores complex themes with a subtle and poetic style. The performances by the three main actors are outstanding, especially Monica Vitti, who delivers a powerful portrayal of a complex and troubled character. The film is a must-see for fans of Antonioni, Cocteau, or anyone who enjoys experimental and thought-provoking cinema.