The intriguing and only feature film of director Gerald Kargl's entire career, "Angst" (1983), offers an unusual and brilliant approach to the subject of serial killers, distancing itself from productions that often trivialize the subject and glamorize the villains associated with this profile.
Based on the story of Austrian murderer Werner Kniesek, who took the lives of a family while on parole, the plot takes on a strongly documentary tone. This approach significantly contributes to immersion, presenting a realistic proposal when portraying the killer. Elements such as the shaky camera, the detailed narration about the serial killer's past, and the raw photography play essential roles in creating an authentically realistic atmosphere. The protagonist offers one of the most convincing representations of the psychological profile of a psychopath in horror cinema, manifesting troubled and impulsive thoughts, providing a penetrating insight into his disturbed mind. The soundtrack, despite being simple and repetitive, emerges as an effective element, harmonizing with the oppressive atmosphere of the work.
Although Erwin Leder's performance is widely recognized, it is notable that the other actors often do not adequately correspond to the situations presented on stage. "Angst" is destined to occupy a prominent place when mentioning the best horror films that explore the theme of serial killers, thanks to its unique, realistic and impactful approach.
Based on the story of Austrian murderer Werner Kniesek, who took the lives of a family while on parole, the plot takes on a strongly documentary tone. This approach significantly contributes to immersion, presenting a realistic proposal when portraying the killer. Elements such as the shaky camera, the detailed narration about the serial killer's past, and the raw photography play essential roles in creating an authentically realistic atmosphere. The protagonist offers one of the most convincing representations of the psychological profile of a psychopath in horror cinema, manifesting troubled and impulsive thoughts, providing a penetrating insight into his disturbed mind. The soundtrack, despite being simple and repetitive, emerges as an effective element, harmonizing with the oppressive atmosphere of the work.
Although Erwin Leder's performance is widely recognized, it is notable that the other actors often do not adequately correspond to the situations presented on stage. "Angst" is destined to occupy a prominent place when mentioning the best horror films that explore the theme of serial killers, thanks to its unique, realistic and impactful approach.