The Bitter Tears of Petra von Kant (1972)

In the world of high fashion, where vanity and ambition intermingle, resides the formidable Petra von Kant. A prosperous, self-assured designer, Petra is as known for her biting wit and haughty demeanor as for her creative genius. In her wake lies a disintegrated marriage and an unconventional, somewhat turbulent relationship with Marlene, her secretary, maid, and co-designer, whom she treats with contemptuous dominance. Into this tangled web of power dynamics and suppressed emotions steps Karin, a young, radiant beauty with dreams of becoming a model. Petra, captivated by Karin's charm, falls headlong into love, inviting her into her home, and by extension, her complex world. As the narrative unfolds, we delve into the emotional whirlpool generated by this unconventional affair and its ensuing consequences. Crafted with meticulous precision by Fassbinder, the tale unravels in a series of elongated scenes, each enriched by the profound use of single-camera shots and deep focus. The Bitter Tears of Petra von Kant is a riveting exploration of love, power, and the human condition, set against the backdrop of a world where appearances can be as deceptive as emotions.

The Bitter Tears of Petra von Kant is a drama movie featuring Margit Carstensen and directed by Rainer Werner Fassbinder.

The Bitter Tears of Petra von Kant is currently streaming on Criterion Channel and Max Amazon Channel.

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