Directed by Frauke Finsterwalder, Sisi & I (2023) is an eccentric yet compelling film that reimagines the lives of Countess Irma von Sztáray (Sandra Hüller) and Empress Elisabeth of Austria and Queen of Hungary (Susanne Wolff), nicknamed Sisi.
The film is based on real documented writings from the actual Countess – but nevertheless takes many creative liberties. Starting off with Irma being hired as a new lady-in-waiting for Sisi, the two women form an incredibly close relationship, despite their differences. Where Irma is slightly naïve, clumsy, and quirky, Sisi is lavish and moody. Sisi also suffers from an eating disorder, which she inflicts on her household by imposing a restrictive diet and cocaine use on her subordinates. Otherwise, Sisi and Irma live in relative peace until Sisi is called back to the Royal Court by her husband, the Emperor of Austria.
The film is incredibly funny and in a strange way, sweet at times. But despite the humour and the bright colour palette, the movie is quite dark – Sisi and Irma’s relationship hinges on toxic co-dependency, and it should be warned that at one point that there is an off-screen rape scene. The film alludes to it before it happens, with a painting of The Rape of Persephone right above the Empress and Emperor’s marital bed.
The darkness and the comedy of the film only make it more nuanced; Sisi and Irma are both fleshed-out, complex characters, arguably neither good nor bad, but merely unfortunate due to circumstances.
The cinematography is rustic and charming – though it was slightly muted, the film was colourful and perfectly captured the gorgeous scenery throughout Greece, Algeria, Austria, and Hungary. The film costuming was also wonderfully done.
A fantastic historical drama and a fresh take on the Empress’ story and the Countess’ written accounts, Sisi & I will captivate you, just as much as our two protagonists did each other.
Sisi & I
From 10 May
123 Minutes
Readers may also enjoy our story about Cairns Indigenous Art Fair Model Call
