About The Night Porter

The Night Porter, released in 1974 is a disturbing depiction of a sadomasochistic relationship between a former Nazi SS officer, Max (Dirk Bogarde), and a concentration camp survivor, Lucia (Charlotte Rampling). Set in Vienna during the 1950s, the plot evolves around the twisted relationship that resumes between Max, who now works as a night porter at a hotel, and Lucia, who accidentally meets him there. The secret and intense relationship that ignites between them raises questions about guilt, lust and memories that outlast time.

Making / Production

The film was directed by Italian filmmaker Liliana Cavani and produced by Robert Gordon Edwards. Despite its controversial theme, Cavani aimed to show a complex but realistic portrait of post-war Vienna and the haunting past of its characters. The screenplay is written by Italo Moscati and Liliana Cavani.

Actors

• Dirk Bogarde as Max: A representation of a tormented individual, captured in the psychological aftermath of war. Bogarde vividly brings out the guilt and fascination of his character.
• Charlotte Rampling as Lucia: Giving life to a deeply affected survivor, Rampling splendidly portrays the complexity and emotional distress of Lucia.
• Philippe Leroy as Klaus: The Shoe.
• Gabriele Ferzetti as Hans: The Count.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film was heavily criticized for its graphic depictions of eroticism and violence.
• Despite the initial controversy, both Dirk Bogarde and Charlotte Rampling received widespread acclaim for their performances.
• The original Italian title of the film is "Il Portiere di notte".

Awards

The film did not win any major international awards.

Quotes

• "We are both victims, Lucia."
• "Love is a bourgeois sentiment."

Music, Soundtrack

• The haunting music score composed by Daniele Paris plays a significant role in setting the tone for this controversial film.