Deftly filmed by director Udo Flohr, "Effigy - Poison and the City" offers an absorbing glimpse of history that should satisfy period drama fans. Set in the 19th-century German port city of Bremen, the film is based on the true story of Gesche Gottfried. As one of the first female serial killers ever identified, she was beheaded in 1831 - Bremen's last public execution.

The movie skilfully blends elements of suspense, drama, and psychological thriller, keeping the audience engaged and intrigued throughout. Its meticulous attention to historical detail immerses viewers in the era's atmosphere. The pacing is deliberate - and occasionally slow, but this apparent mundanity underscores the grim brutality of its subject matter.

Lead actress Suzan Anbeh, who portrays Gesche Gottfried, delivers a nuanced and compelling performance, expertly balancing the character's complexity and evoking both empathy and revulsion. She presents Gottfried not just as a villain but as a multifaceted individual shaped by her circumstances and demons. Consequently, the film also delves into themes of gender and societal roles, reflecting on how women were perceived and treated during that time. It offers both entertainment and insight.

Overall, if you're a fan of thought-provoking psychological thrillers and period pieces alike, give Effigy a watch.

In this true story, two formidable women deliver impactful performances at the forefront. The narrative, if fabricated, would seem implausively exaggerated. It's unsettling to realize that the seemingly benign yet cunning woman who poisoned about 15 people over years in Bremen actually existed. I viewed this film in a German city close to Bremen, where locals are familiar with this historical incident.

In the movie, the murderess is depicted as jealous of the talents and status of her adversary, the young legal assistant Cato Böhmer. While there are some plausible theories about the murderer's motives and mindset, her actions largely remain an enigma, leaving viewers with lingering questions. What drove her to commit numerous murders while maintaining a facade of benevolence?

The film's dialogue stands out for its clarity, a refreshing change from modern movies that often feature mumbled lines or overpowering background sounds.

The score, created by a 40-member orchestra, beautifully enhances the film's mood.

The plot weaves in the technological and economic progress of the 1830s, educating viewers on railway development in Northern Germany against a backdrop of historical scenery. An intriguing aspect is the depiction of an early mechanical copier, a device I was unfamiliar with.

This movie is a must-see, transcending appeal beyond historical dialogue enthusiasts. I eagerly anticipate Udo Flohr's next creation and hope he continues to cast such compelling actors.