On Body and Soul

Dream-sharing slaughterhouse workers develop profound connection

Watch on Netflix
About On Body and Soul

Released: 2017

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 1h 55m

Cast
Alexandra Borbély, Géza Morcsányi, Réka Tenki, Zoltán Schneider, Ervin Nagy, Itala Bekes, Éva Bata, Mácsai Pál, Zsuzsa Jaro, Nóra Rainer-Micsinyei

About On Body and Soul

Explore

About

On Body and Soul is a 2017 Hungarian drama film directed by Ildikó Enyedi. The film tells the story of two introverted people, Endre and Mária, who work in a slaughterhouse and discover that they share the same dream every night - where they meet as deer in a forest. As they try to make sense of their unusual connection, a romantic relationship starts to develop between them.

The film beautifully explores themes of love, human connection, and the boundaries between reality and dreams. It takes a poetic and introspective approach to storytelling, allowing the audience to delve into the inner worlds of the characters.

Making / Production

On Body and Soul was filmed in Budapest, Hungary. Director Ildikó Enyedi meticulously crafted the visuals, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that mirrors the surreal connection between Endre and Mária. The film was made on a relatively low budget, highlighting the creativity and resourcefulness of the production team. The attention to detail in the set design and cinematography adds to the film's overall enchanting quality.

Actors

  • Alexandra Borbély as Mária - Borbély delivers a captivating performance as the introverted and analytical Mária. Her portrayal of the character's struggles and delicate emotions is both subtle and powerful.
  • Géza Morcsányi as Endre - Morcsányi's portrayal of Endre, a reserved and kindhearted man, brings depth to the character. His chemistry with Borbély helps to convey the nuanced emotions between the two characters.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

  • The film won the Golden Bear, the highest prize at the 2017 Berlin International Film Festival.
  • On Body and Soul was Hungary's official submission for the Best Foreign Language Film category at the 90th Academy Awards.
  • The film's unique premise was inspired by a true story, where a couple discovered they had been having the same dreams.

Awards

On Body and Soul received critical acclaim and numerous awards for its artistic achievements. Some notable awards include:

  • Golden Bear - Berlin International Film Festival
  • Best European Film - European Film Awards
  • FIPRESCI Prize - Syd