Watch Komm, Suber Tod

"Komm, Suber Tod" ("Come, Sweet Death" in English) is a dark and thought-provoking drama from Austria, directed by Wolfgang Murnberger and released in 2000. The movie tells the story of a troubled man named Bräuer, played by Josef Hader, who works as a paramedic for the ambulance service in Vienna. Bräuer is burned out with his career, disillusioned with life, and haunted by his memories of patients who have died on his watch. He is deeply conflicted about the relief that death can bring to those who are suffering, and his job has brought him face-to-face with the reality of mortality to the point where he feels a personal connection to death itself.

To cope with his internal struggles and the unrelenting stress of his work, Bräuer has developed a variety of unhealthy coping mechanisms. He drinks heavily, chain-smokes, and numbs himself with prescription medication. But it's not enough to ease his existential pain and he begins to spiral out of control.

Things change for Bräuer when his new colleague, Nina (Barbara Rudnik), joins the ambulance crew. She is cheerful, hardworking, and dedicated to helping patients in need. Her positivity and energy begin to rub off on Bräuer, and they form an unlikely friendship. However, when a tragedy strikes, Bräuer is forced to confront his deepest fears and decide whether he can continue with his work and carry on living.

The themes of life, death, and burnout are handled with sensitivity and nuance in "Komm, Suber Tod", thanks to a well-crafted screenplay and impeccable performances from the cast. Hader delivers an exceptional portrayal of a man on the edge, conveying the pain and disillusionment that can come with a life spent in the service of others. But he also brings a level of empathy and introspection that humanizes his character and helps the audience understand his motivations.

Supporting performances from Simon Schwarz as Bräuer's loyal co-worker, and Rudnik as the bright light in his life, add a layer of complexity to the story and offer different perspectives on the issues at play.

The visuals of the movie are rich and striking, capturing the gritty reality of Vienna's urban landscape, while also creating a dreamlike atmosphere that heightens the emotional impact of the narrative. Adding to this, the score by the composer Gerhard Gruber, is somber and poignant, complementing the film's themes of despair and hopelessness.

Overall, "Komm, Suber Tod" is a deeply affecting film, that takes an unflinching look at a difficult subject matter. It's a movie that forces the viewer to examine their own relationship with mortality, while showcasing the toll that a life in service can have on those who choose it. This film is a must-see for anyone who appreciates thought-provoking dramas that linger in the memory long after the credits have finished.