Revanche

Aroview: A botched bank robbery resulting in the death of a prostitute compels an embittered ex-con to contemplate revenge in this steely, impressive Austrian thriller.

Resolutely European, dir. Spielmann’s exacting images recall the glacial cinema of fellow Austrian Michael Haneke, yet also disguise a hopeful, humanist strain that’s both unexpected and emotionally rewarding when finally revealed. Shot with utmost restraint and control, the film’s stillness and understated suspense further subvert revenge movie tropes, making for a slow, but surprising experience, designed for the patient viewer in mind.