| cult icon Klaus
kinski features in this dark and intriguing existential thriller.
He plays the mysterious "Swiss Man" - ruthless industrialist
Nicolas Ulrich - who is obsessed with a search for the elixier of
life. He tricks a young American scientist into joining him on his
demonic quest. A quest that ends in suicide, death and madness.
The story takes
place in the atmospheric European city of Amsterdam. Its winding
alleys and ancient canals trap the characters in a labyrinthine
maze as they find themselves manipulated like figures on a giant
chessboard.
The film was controversial
in its day for the extended bondage scene featuring female star
Tina Aumont. This was cut in manu countries, but is complete in
this version. The brilliant soundtrack, unavailable for over 30
years, is by avant garde composer Terry Riley.
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