The Lump (1967)

Movie Introduction

"The Lump" is a 1967 Croatian movie directed by Zvonimir Berković, based upon a radio drama of the very same name. The film is a psychological drama that delves into the mind of its lead character, analyzing the complex layers of his character and surreal obsession. The narrative weaves a dark tale of misery, torture, and fascination, developing a turning point in Croatian movie theater.

Plot Summary

The story focuses on Dinko Babic, an introverted bank teller living an ordinary life in Zagreb. His existence starts to break down when he finds a swelling growing under his armpit while taking a bath. The existential fear produced by the lump forces Babic to stop his task and separate himself, intending to fathom the cause and remedy for his ailment. He begins thoroughly keeping a diary, fanatically documenting every minor change in lump size and his emotional response, coming down further into paranoia and distress.

Babic's Obsession and Its Impact

Dinko Babic, played with an unnerving intensity by Pavle Vuisić, emerges as a guy taken in by his fascination with the lump. He begins viewing it as a deadly entity that gradually takes control of his life. He declines medical aid and rather analyzes his life, trying to understand the mental roots of his physical aility. This self-questioning leads him to associate the lump with his humdrum presence, lack of individual inspiration, and a failure to establish significant relationships.

Thematic Resonance

"The Lump" deals with complex existential styles, portraying the protagonist's profound reflection on life and upcoming mortality through his strange fascination with a condition. The movie utilizes the physical symptom of the lump as a metaphor for the internal chaos of the human mind, the desperate longing for modification, and the battle for liberty from suffocating uniformity.

Sublime Cinematography and Performances

The film's dismal atmosphere is perfectly matched by its stark black-and-white cinematography, which visually mirrors the lead character's bleak mental landscape. Improved by a dearth of soundtrack, the movie creates a spooky sense of dread that penetrates its claustrophobic mise-en-scene. Pavle Vuisić delivers a performance of a life time, effectively capturing the spiraling madness and ensuing misery of a guy stuck in existential angst.

Conclusion

"The Lump", although an emotionally heavy and dark cinematic venture, stands as a skillful expedition of human angst and isolation. Director Zvonimir Berković crafts an engaging story out of a relatively mundane dilemma, making the audience ponder their mortality and the uncertainty of life. The deeply thought-provoking movie, underpinned by engaging efficiencies and noir-esque cinematography, is a testament to innovative Croatian movie theater. Regardless of being a product of its time, it continues to resonate deeply, turning its unknown premise into a universal metaphor for life's unsteady nature.

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