Ulrike Ottinger's "The Blood Countess" Premieres at Berlin International Film Festival

Ulrike Ottinger, a prominent figure in the German New Wave movement, returns to the Berlin International Film Festival with her long-awaited film, "The Blood Countess." Premiering in the Berlinale’s Special Gala section, the film features Isabelle Huppert in the role of Countess Elizabeth Báthory, a 16th-century Hungarian aristocrat infamous for her alleged serial killings and immortalized in gothic lore. The project, which took over two decades to materialize, showcases Ottinger's unique vision and artistic style.

Variety MagazineIsabelle Huppert brings ‘The Blood Countess’ to Berlin

Ottinger conceived the film more than 25 years ago, with the screenplay written in 1998. She collaborated with Nobel laureate Elfriede Jelinek, known for "The Piano Teacher," to craft the narrative. Huppert was envisioned for the lead role from the outset, and after years of discussions, she joined the project once financing was secured. The film was produced on an €8 million budget, with support from Austria and Luxembourg, and was shot over a span of 30 days.

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In "The Blood Countess," the titular character awakens from a long slumber and embarks on a quest through Vienna, accompanied by her maid. The narrative intertwines elements of comedy and horror, featuring a cast of eccentric characters, including a vegetarian relative of Báthory and two vampirologists. Ottinger emphasizes the film's humor, stating that it is structured carefully rather than remaining naturalistic.

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The film also reflects contemporary themes, with Ottinger drawing parallels between the vampire myth and modern society's obsession with immortality. She critiques the wealthy elite's attempts to evade death, describing it as "vampiric" and indicative of hubris.

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Ottinger's approach to the vampire genre diverges from conventional norms, as she sought to utilize it artistically rather than adhering to genre standards. The film's setting in Vienna, inspired by Ottinger's travels in 1998, adds a rich historical layer to the narrative. The director's previous works, including "Madame X — An Absolute Ruler" and "Freak Orlando," inform her distinctive style, which balances theatricality with craft.

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Huppert's portrayal of Elizabeth Báthory marks a departure from her typical roles, which often emphasize psychological depth. Ottinger describes the countess as "despotic" and in control, a character that allows Huppert to showcase her glamour and authority in a new light. This performance aligns with Huppert's longstanding relationship with the Berlin International Film Festival, where she has been celebrated for her diverse roles over the decades.

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"The Blood Countess" represents a culmination of Ulrike Ottinger's artistic vision and dedication to storytelling. As the film premieres at the Berlin International Film Festival, it not only highlights the director's unique interpretation of a historical figure but also engages with broader societal themes, ensuring its relevance in contemporary discourse.

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