The Bitter Tears of Petra von Kant

About The Bitter Tears of Petra von Kant

The Bitter Tears of Petra von Kant is a 1972 German melodrama film directed and written by Rainer Werner Fassbinder. This movie, filmed long before the LGBTQ+ movement began, was a bold leap into discussing experiences and relationships within it. The plot revolves around Petra von Kant, a successful fashion designer, completely consumed by her torrid love affair with the young, attractive Karin who betrays her. This leads Petra into a downward spiral of self-destruction through unrequited love and bitterness.

Making / Production

Directed by Rainer Werner Fassbinder, this film was based on his play of the same name. The film was shot entirely in Fassbinder's apartment, and reportedly filmed in just 10 days, bringing a distinctive stagey feel to it. Fassbinder also used long, static takes and minimal camera movement to emphasize the feelings of the characters on screen.

Actors

• Margit Carstensen as Petra von Kant: Carstensen plays the title role of Petra, a egotistical, successful fashion designer. She skillfully reveals Petra's vulnerability and desperation as her infatuation turns into obsession.
• Hanna Schygulla as Karin Thimm: Schygulla portrays Karin, a young, alluring woman. She portrays the manipulative and confusing aspect of Karin that leads Petra into her demise.
• Irm Hermann as Marlene: Hermann plays Marlene, Petra's silent, dominated assistant. In a masterful, almost silent performance, Hermann expresses Marlene's suppressed feelings and her twisted relationship with Petra.

Trivia/Interesting Facts

• The entire film takes place in just one room, heightening the claustrophobic atmosphere.
• This is Fassbinder's second installment in his "BRD Trilogy", preceded by The Marriage of Maria Braun and followed by Veronika Voss.
• The posture and movement of the actors in the film were rigorously rehearsed, adding a theatrical stance to it.

Quotes

• "When you've got a career, you don't need a man." - Petra von Kant
• "People think they can do anything, and they can do nothing." - Petra von Kant
• "Love? How do you know what I feel or can feel?" - Karin Thimm

Music, Soundtrack

• The Platters- Only you
• Nicoletta - Ma vie c'est un manège
• The Walker Brothers - After the lights go out