THE PIANO TEACHER

A film by Michael Haneke

Cast : Annie Girardot, Isabelle Huppert, Benoit Magimel

2000 / drama / Autriche-France / original title : LA PIANISTE / 130’ / Color / status : completed / French / Some Material May Be Inappropriate For Children Under 16 / long feature-film / French catalog

Erika Kohut teaches piano ar the Conservatory in Vienna. In her early forties, she lives at home, cooped up with her mother, whose influence Erika escapes only on her regular visitsto porn cinemas and peepshows. Her sexuality is an affair of morbid voyeurism and masochistic self-mutilation. Erika and life travel separate paths. Until one day, one of her students gets it into his head to seduce her…

 

A gripping drama exploring the intricacies of desire and repression, offering a raw and unapologetic portrayal of human nature. With its haunting narrative and powerful performances, the film leaves an indelible mark, showcasing Michael Haneke’s mastery in navigating the darker facets of the human psyche.

Press

“A striking, brilliant film with extraordinary performances - and Huppert’s acting is heartrending.”

The Chicago Tribune