Keswick Film Club - The Universal Theory

Synopsis

Before you think this is a German scientific documentary, let me say that Jessica Kiang's review in Variety is entitled "A sumptuous homage to Hitchcock packaged as a Metaphysical Noir"; all is not what it seems!

It is 1961. We join Johannes, a student, off to a conference in Switzerland with his amazingly grumpy tutor Dr Julius Strahten. They are joined by Professor Henry Blomberg, who helped the Nazis in the war. "Their hotel, when they arrive, is a connoisseur's delight. There's a crusty receptionist who needs to be bribed to offer up a room in direct tribute to The Lady Vanishes; a small bellboy given to blurting out 'Heil Hitler!'; and a man with a scarred face – and that's just the welcoming committee. Over on the piano is Karin[shortly to become our femme fatale]" – Fionnuala Halligan, Screen Daily.

Johannes feels a strange déjà vu with Karin. "The fact that Karin can relate entire stories from Johannes' childhood that he's never told anyone does little to disavow him of the notion of their peculiar connection" - Jessica Kiang again. Tunnels in the mountains, flashing lights and sinister figures on the mountainside all add to the mystery which deepens when Karin disappears… the rest you will need to come and see for yourself. Be prepared to look for solutions where you might not expect to find them…