Coup de grâce
Der Fangschuss
Germany • 1976
Director
#192Criterion Collection →Synopsis
Latvia, 1919: the end of the Russian Civil War. An aristocratic young woman (brilliantly played by Margarethe von Trotta) becomes involved with a sexually repressed Prussian soldier. When she is rejected by her love, the young woman is sent into a downward spiral of psychosexual depression, promiscuity, and revolutionary collaboration. A startling tale of heartbreak and violence set against the backdrop of bloody revolution, Volker Schlöndorff's COUP DE GRÂCE is a powerful film that explores the interrelation of private passion and political commitment.
Synopsis
Latvia, 1919: the end of the Russian Civil War. An aristocratic young woman (brilliantly played by Margarethe von Trotta) becomes involved with a sexually repressed Prussian soldier. When she is rejected by her love, the young woman is sent into a downward spiral of psychosexual depression, promiscuity, and revolutionary collaboration. A startling tale of heartbreak and violence set against the backdrop of bloody revolution, Volker Schlöndorff's COUP DE GRÂCE is a powerful film that explores the interrelation of private passion and political commitment.
Criterion Closet Pick
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Credits
Crew
DirectorVolker Schlöndorff
CinematographerIgor Luther
ComposerStanley Myers
EditorJane Seitz
ProducerEberhard Junkersdorf
Cast
Margarethe von Trottaas Sophie de Reval
Matthias Habichas Erich von Lhomond
Rüdiger Kirschsteinas Conrad de Reval