The naked face

About This Movie

The Naked Face offers a fascinating glimpse into the minds of István Szabó and Klaus Maria Brandauer as they reflect on cinema's deeper connections with history and art. The tone is quite introspective, allowing for a rich exploration of the implications of World War II on their work, particularly with Mephisto and Colonel Redl. The pacing is relaxed, giving you space to absorb their thoughts and insights, making it feel like a candid conversation rather than a formal documentary. Their performances, if you could call them that in this context, are genuine and thought-provoking, pulling you into their cinematic philosophies. It’s distinct not just for the subject matter but for how it connects personal narrative with broader historical themes, which is a refreshing take among standard film commentaries.

The Naked Face is included as an extra on the DVD release of Mephisto, which adds an interesting layer for collectors looking to explore Szabó’s work more deeply. While the standalone availability is limited, its connection to Mephisto heightens its desirability among fans of European cinema and those interested in film history. Its scarcity in certain formats makes it a fascinating find for dedicated collectors who appreciate the intertwining of personal and political narratives in cinema.