The Door (2012)

The Door Poster
Original Title: Az ajtó

Emerenc, an elderly and private woman, is hired to be the housekeeper of a struggling writer, Magda. An event in the writer's life prompts Emerenc to disclose details of her traumatizing past, which will bond the two women forever. Based on the novel by Magda Szabó.

Overview
"The Door" is a 2012 Hungarian-German co-produced film directed by István Szabó and based upon the novel of the very same name by Magda Szabó. The film stars Helen Mirren, best known for her role as Queen Elizabeth II in "The Queen", and Martina Gedeck, known for "The Lives of Others". It checks out themes of regret, relationship, class divides, and the inexplicable bond between 2 incredibly different ladies.

Plot
"The Door" is mostly embeded in post-World War II Hungary and it focuses on the unique relationship between 2 females, the author Magda (Martina Gedeck) and her housemaid Emerence (Helen Mirren). Magda, who is a well-read person, employs Emerence, a controlling and nearly tyrannical employee, after the latter impresses her with her neatness and strong work principles.

The relationship between Magda and Emerence is intricate, marked by love, resentment, regard, and misconceptions. Emerence, regardless of her gruff exterior, proves to be an insightful woman with a terrible past. Gradually, she exposes her surprise depths and previous traumas to Magda, which deepens their bond in spite of their significantly various backgrounds.

Key Events
An uninhibited display of power in between the 2 women takes an unexpected turn when Emerence falls ill. Magda, regardless of her tight schedule, takes it upon herself to look after her housemaid. As Emerence's health degrades, Magda takes an essential choice that eventually leads to a terrible occasion and leaves her ridden with guilt. This guilt forms a crucial element of the narrative, ultimately forming the fate of both women.

Performances
Helen Mirren's portrayal of Emerence was deeply layered, masterfully catching the essence of this complex character. Her efficiency symbolized a female who, beneath her harsh facade, was pestered by the injuries of her past. Martina Gedeck's representation of Magda was equally good. She effectively brought to life the intellectual, privileged, and rather naive writer. The chemistry in between the 2 protagonist was robust and palpable, highlighting their complicated relationship elegantly.

Vital Reception
"The Door" got mixed evaluations from critics. On the positive side, critics applauded the efficiency of its leading women, specifically Helen Mirren, and the movie's exploration of complex female relationships. However, some felt that the movie did not have the narrative subtlety and richness of the original novel.

In summary, "The Door" is a poignant and thought-provoking film showcasing a distinct relationship between two women. It checks out the exchange of power, love, regard, and guilt between 2 very various people. In spite of its weaknesses, the movie provides intense performances, particularly from Helen Mirren, and delivers a mesmerizing narrative about intricate human relationships.

Top Cast

  • Helen Mirren (small)
    Helen Mirren
    Emerenc Szeredás
  • Martina Gedeck (small)
    Martina Gedeck
    Magda
  • Károly Eperjes (small)
    Károly Eperjes
    Tibor
  • Péter Andorai (small)
    Péter Andorai
    Mr. Brodarics
  • Enik? Börcsök (small)
    Enik? Börcsök
    Sutu
  • Gábor Koncz (small)
    Gábor Koncz
    The Lt. Colonel
  • Lajos Kovács (small)
    Lajos Kovács
    Handyman
  • Erika Marozsán (small)
    Erika Marozsán
    Évike Grossmann
  • Mari Nagy (small)
    Mari Nagy
    Adél
  • Csaba Pindroch (small)
    Csaba Pindroch
    Emerenc's Nephew
  • Ági Szirtes (small)
    Ági Szirtes
    Polett