Directed by Rainer Werner Fassbinder, “The Bitter Tears of Petra von Kant” is a claustrophobic, emotionally intense drama set almost entirely within a single apartment. The film follows Petra von Kant (Margit Carstensen), a successful but domineering fashion designer, as she enters a toxic and manipulative relationship with Karin (Hanna Schygulla), a beautiful but indifferent younger woman. As Petra becomes increasingly obsessed and emotionally dependent, Karin’s aloofness and eventual betrayal expose Petra’s vulnerabilities, pride, and self-delusion. The film’s theatrical staging, long takes, and stark power dynamics explore themes of love, control, and humiliation, culminating in a devastating collapse of Petra’s carefully constructed ego.

Time: 5:30-8:00 pm EST

Free!