Watch Natascha Kampusch: The Whole Story

Natascha Kampusch: The Whole Story is a 2010 documentary that chronicles the life of Natascha Kampusch, who was kidnapped at the age of 10 and spent the next eight years in captivity. Directed by Eva Testor, the film features interviews with Kampusch herself, as well as with her mother, her kidnapper Wolfgang Priklopil's mother, and various experts on child trauma and the effects of long-term captivity.

The documentary begins with Kampusch's abduction in 1998, when Priklopil lured her into his van while she was walking to school. Kampusch describes in detail the horror of her captivity - the small, windowless dungeon in Priklopil's house where she was kept, the constant fear and uncertainty, and the physical and emotional abuse she suffered at Priklopil's hands. She also talks about the ways in which she tried to cope with her captivity, including developing an interest in literature and music and learning to speak a form of secret code with Priklopil.

The film delves into the psychology of kidnapping and long-term captivity, with interviews with experts such as psychiatrist August Ruhs and child psychologist Marilies Flemming. They discuss the effects of such trauma on a child's development, particularly in terms of cognitive and emotional development, and talk about the challenges of treating survivors of such experiences.

Kampusch's mother, Brigitta Sirny-Kampusch, also shares her perspective on her daughter's abduction and the aftermath. She talks about the guilt she felt for not being able to protect her daughter, and the difficulty of rebuilding their relationship after her release. The documentary also features interviews with Priklopil's mother, who describes her shock and disbelief at her son's actions, and his former friend Ernst H., who provides some insight into Priklopil's personality and motives.

Throughout the film, Kampusch comes across as a resilient and thoughtful young woman, who has been able to process and make sense of the trauma she endured. She talks about the importance of forgiveness and moving forward, and expresses gratitude for the support she has received from friends, family, and the wider public.

The documentary does not shy away from the controversial aspects of Kampusch's case, including questions about whether she developed Stockholm syndrome or had some degree of agency in her captivity. It also includes footage of her interactions with Priklopil, captured on a video camera he kept in the dungeon, which shows their difficult and sometimes ambiguous relationship.

Overall, Natascha Kampusch: The Whole Story is a compelling and sensitive exploration of a horrific and complex case, told through the eyes of the survivor herself. It raises important questions about trauma, resilience, and the human capacity for survival and hope.