Requiem

Director: Hans-Christian Schmid

Language: German

Rated: MA

IFC: March 6th 2007

88 Minutes

From Netflix:
Set in 1970s Germany, this taut drama from director Hans-Christian Schmid follows troubled 21-year-old Michaela Klingler (Sandra Huller), a devout Catholic whose epilepsy results in a tragic exorcism. Michaela is determined to get a college education regardless of her condition, but the pressures of school and sexual awakenings give rise to seizures that she ascribes to demonic possession. Based on a true story.

'Requiem' is the true story of Anneliese Michel's. I decided to watch 'Requiem' because I've seen both 'Exorcism of Emily Rose' and 'Anneliese: The Exorcism Tapes.' I wouldn't really classify it as a horror but I can see how it falls into that category. The thought behind the movie and the true story is what makes it creepy.

The movie is told through Michaela Klinger. She is brought up in a very religious family. Right from the start you learn that Michaela has some sort of...problem that needs to be monitored by Doctors as her parents are very hesitant about letting her go to College. They do let her go and, while there, you can see the drastic transformation from exemplary student, family oriented, and religious good girl to partying, drinking, having premarital sex and just a general downward spiral. Michaela Klinger is played by Sandra Huller and, wow, what a performance! Amazing acting all around.

Don't watch this movie if you are expecting to see blood and guts, demons, devils, exorcisms, or CGI. That's not what this movie is about. If you want to learn about the girl and the family that inspired 'Exorcism of Emily Rose' then I think you'll love this. While still creepy at times, it is definitely not scary. I don't want to give any misperceptions. That being said, 'Requiem' is still a great movie! The acting is good, it's true to life, and it keeps you engaged. I recommend it but only for the above stated reasons. If you're more into seeing demons and things, watch 'Exorcism of Emily Rose.'

My Rating: 4/5

Ginger