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In a Glass Cage


In a Glass Cage (1986) N

A film that's been on my watchlist for quite some time because of its reputation as dark and disturbing piece of cinema. It didn't disappoint on any level.



Klaus, a former Nazi doctor, has a fetish for sexual violence towards young boys that includes killing them. After one incident he attempts suicide which leaves his entire body paralyzed and himself trapped within a machine that keeps him breathing. Soon a young man, Angelo, arrives to the house and becomes Klaus' nurse helping his wife and young daughter, Rena, to take care of Klaus. But Angelo's motives aren't exactly philanthropic.

While there isn't much graphic violence in the film In a Glass Cage is quite daring and it has had some issues with censorship. It's topic of sexual abuse and fetishized murder of children is a touchy one and the film's depictions of such events are more brutal than usual. The film digs deep into the worst of humanity and doesn't offer much light or redemption.



I was surprised how good the film was technically. It's cinematography is masterful and its often cold color palette drains its world from all warm emotions. It mostly happens within one large house and every shot inside is brilliantly composed (nothing wrong with the few outside shots either). There's also one long murder scene that would have made Argento proud. Acting is also great by everyone (especially the chemistry between Angelo and Rena worked really well).

A relentless film about controversial topics, a drama with a hint of art house and most of all a great film. One of the most disturbing films out there but definitely recommended.