Mortem

Mortem is an enigmatic and deeply psychological thriller film that released in 2010. It marries the traditional components of a thriller with experimental elements to produce a story that leaves you questioning the reality of what you just watched. This film, presented by the skilled director Eric Atlan, features gifted actors Daria Panchenko, Diana Rudychenko, and Stany Coppet in lead roles.

In the long history of cinema, it's not often that you encounter a film that challenges the boundaries of storytelling in the way that Mortem does. This film delves deep into the human psyche, exploring anxiety, the subconscious, reality, and our relationship with death. Like a complex puzzle, the movie’s storyline is a labyrinth of unending suspense.

The film starts by introducing the main character Jena (Daria Panchenko), a young woman who embarks on a nocturnal journey on her motorcycle. Jena’s path is crossed by a mysterious figure, triggering a series of strange events that lead our protagonist to untangle the threads of her own reality. Jena is the troubled character trying to decipher the truth about her past, her memories, and eventually her very existence. Mortem showcases her spiraling journey, her struggle between her subconscious and conscious mind, grappled between facts and the blurred lines of her subjective reality.

Opposite Jena, we have Stany Coppet, who plays the enigmatic character that crosses paths with Jena. Coppet’s character is not just your typical antagonist but seemingly a phantom-like figure that is reflective of Jena's deepest fears and anxieties. Through this character, Atlan attempts to portray the terrifying nature of the unknown and the dread it brings along.

An equally intriguing character is played by Diana Rudychenko. Her role in the film not only adds complexity but imparts layers to the storyline that reinforce the film's mysterious tone.

The director, Eric Atlan, presents this story with a unique narrative structure, there's an ambiguity that leaves us as perplexed as Jena herself. Atlan's expert filmmaking is evident in the movie's distinct blend of psychological thriller elements with abstract representations of existential fears.

From a cinematography perspective, Mortem strikes with its atmospheric dark tones and the effective use of light and shadows. The clever camera work amplifies the ominous feeling throughout and the tight shots of the characters further adds to the tenseness of the film. The film's locations, be it the dark and lonely road or the unnerving structures encountered along Jena's journey, each contribute to the build up of this film's mystifying narrative.

A remarkable feature of Mortem is its haunting background score. The music impacts the pacing of the film and gradually creates a strangulating effect on the viewers, echoing the confusion and fear experienced by the characters.

Performance-wise, Daria Panchenko, in the role of Jena, proves to be a revelation. Panchenko’s performance embodies the internal chaos of her character with a highly emotive display, her physicality, and expressions perfectly portraying the enigma of Jena’s reality. Equally commendable is Stany Coppet, whose eerie portrayal of the mysterious figure sends shivers down the spine. Diana Rudychenko, her role brilliantly layered and cryptic, provides a solid contribution to the overall atmosphere.

In conclusion, Mortem is not your standard psychological thriller - it is an intellectual piece that is intentionally designed to be open-ended and thought-provoking. It invites viewers to delve deep into their minds and question their understanding of reality. This film is a shining example of abstract cinema that leaves its mark with its bewildering storyline, atmospheric cinematography, chilling music, and exceptional performances. For anyone who appreciates unconventional storytelling and appreciates psychological thrillers that make you think, Mortem is a must-watch. A warning though - this film may not be everyone's cup of tea, but for those who enjoy complex, thought-provoking cinema, Mortem offers an unforgettable ride.