Possession (1981)

Possession (1981), directed by Andrzej Żuławski and co-written by Żuławski and Frederic Tuten, is a psychological horror film that delves into the complexities of human relationships, identity, and the unraveling of sanity. Set against the backdrop of Cold War-era Berlin, the film follows the intense and disturbing journey of Mark (Sam Neill), a secret agent, and his wife Anna (Isabelle Adjani), whose marriage falls apart after she demands a divorce. What follows is a descent into madness and horror as Anna’s behavior grows increasingly erratic, leading to a series of chilling and grotesque events.

The film’s core is the deteriorating relationship between Mark and Anna, and Possession explores the psychological impact of love, betrayal, and loss in a way that is both haunting and surreal. The narrative begins with a seemingly simple premise: a man returns home to find that his wife wants a divorce, and that her life is spiraling out of control. However, as the story unfolds, the film takes the audience on a disturbing and nightmarish journey, with Anna’s behavior becoming more inexplicable and terrifying. The film blends elements of psychological horror with deep emotional and existential themes, creating a unique cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

Isabelle Adjani’s performance as Anna is nothing short of extraordinary. She delivers a career-defining portrayal of a woman in emotional turmoil, torn between love, fear, and an uncontrollable inner force. Adjani’s physical and emotional transformation throughout the film is both compelling and unsettling. Her portrayal of Anna’s descent into madness is intense and unsettling, with the actress embodying a sense of both fragility and menace. The famous scene where Anna has a violent breakdown in a subway station, screaming and twitching in agony, remains one of the most iconic moments in horror cinema, showcasing Adjani’s raw and fearless performance.