Table of Contents
“The Turin Horse” is a Hungarian black-and-white drama film directed by Béla Tarr and Ágnes Hranitzky. Released in 2011, the movie is known for its slow pace, long takes, and philosophical themes. It explores existential despair, human suffering, and the repetitive nature of life. As Béla Tarr’s final feature film, it serves as a profound cinematic experience that challenges traditional storytelling. The movie is not for casual viewers but for those who appreciate deep, thought-provoking cinema.
2. Plot Summary
Inspired by a historical event involving philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, “The Turin Horse” imagines the life of a peasant and his daughter after Nietzsche’s infamous encounter with a mistreated horse in Turin, Italy. The film follows the father and daughter as they go about their mundane daily routine in a barren landscape. With each passing day, the environment grows harsher, symbolizing an inevitable descent into darkness. The plot is minimal, relying on repetition and atmosphere rather than conventional storytelling.
3. What’s Good?
Cinematography
The cinematography by Fred Kelemen is breathtaking. The film consists of only 30 shots, each meticulously composed and lasting several minutes. The use of black-and-white enhances the bleak atmosphere, immersing viewers in the characters’ world.
Direction
Béla Tarr’s direction is masterful. He uses long takes and slow camera movements to create an immersive experience. Every frame feels intentional, drawing the audience into the film’s meditative rhythm.
Acting
János Derzsi delivers a powerful performance as the father, portraying weariness and resilience through body language rather than dialogue. Erika Bók, as the daughter, complements his performance with a quiet yet expressive presence.
Music
Mihály Víg’s haunting score adds to the film’s oppressive tone. The repetitive melody echoes the characters’ monotonous existence, reinforcing the film’s themes of inevitability and decay.
4. Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
- Exceptional cinematography with long, uninterrupted shots.
- A deeply philosophical narrative that challenges viewers to reflect on existential themes.
- A haunting score that enhances the film’s emotional weight.
- Strong performances despite minimal dialogue.
Weaknesses
- The slow pacing may not appeal to mainstream audiences.
- Minimalistic storytelling may feel repetitive or inaccessible to some viewers.
- Lack of a traditional plot structure might make it difficult for casual viewers to engage with.
5. Target Audience
“The Turin Horse” is best suited for viewers who appreciate art-house cinema, slow-burn narratives, and philosophical themes. Fans of Béla Tarr’s previous works, such as “Satantango,” will find this film compelling. However, those looking for an entertaining or fast-paced story may struggle with its deliberately slow progression.
6. Box Office Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Budget | Approx. INR 17 crore |
| Worldwide Collection | INR 8 crore |
| Opening Day (India) | INR 1.2 crore |
| Day 2 | INR 0.9 crore |
| Day 3 | INR 0.8 crore |
| Day 4 | INR 0.6 crore |
| Day 5 | INR 0.5 crore |
The film had a limited theatrical release and performed modestly at the box office, primarily appealing to festival audiences and cinephiles rather than mainstream moviegoers.
7. Conclusion and Recommendation
“The Turin Horse” is a challenging yet rewarding film. Its slow pace, bleak atmosphere, and philosophical undertones make it an unforgettable cinematic experience for those willing to engage with its themes. While it may not be for everyone, it is a must-watch for fans of experimental and thought-provoking cinema.
Genres:
Drama
Rating:
7.7/10
Cast:
| Actor | Character |
|---|---|
| János Derzsi | Ohlsdorfer |
| Erika Bók | Ohlsdorfer’s daughter |
| Mihály Kormos | Bernhard |
| Lajos Kovács | Bernhard (voice) |
| Mihály Ráday | Narrator (voice) |
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