In post-Communist Hungary, inhabitants of an impoverished village await compensation following the closure of the local factory. When Irimiás, a man thought long since dead, returns to the village, his promise of a better life earns him a devoted following. They will embark upon a journey with their false prophet to what they believe will be the promised land, only to discover a very different fate, one that will hasten the collapse of the social order.
Evolving over twelve distinct movements and alternating back and forth in time like a tango dance, Béla Tarr’s film is rightly lauded as one the great achievements of cinema, taking on an almost mythic status both for its epic duration and uncompromising vision.
Shot in high contrast black and white and utilising a hypnotic score from composer Mihály Vig (who also plays Irimiás onscreen), Sátántangó is a film of unrivalled power and beauty, profoundly rewarding for those willing to take the trip.
Please note: This film contains scenes of animal cruelty and infant death.