Watch The Death of Empedocles

The Death of Empedocles is a German film directed by Jean-Marie Straub and Danièle Huillet, based on the play of the same name by Friedrich Hölderlin. Set in ancient Sicily, the film tells the story of the Greek philosopher, Empedocles, who decides to take his own life by leaping into the fiery crater of Mount Etna.

The film is divided into four acts, each of which is introduced by a title card with a quote from Hölderlin's play. The first act introduces us to Empedocles (Andreas von Rauch), who is seen wandering through the countryside, deep in thought. He meets a group of peasants, who are digging in the fields, and he talks to them about the nature of life and death. The peasants are skeptical of Empedocles’ ideas, but he seems indifferent to their opinions.

The second act takes place in the royal palace, where Empedocles is invited to attend a banquet. At the banquet, Empedocles speaks of his desire to leap into the volcano, which causes consternation amongst the guests. Empedocles is mocked and ridiculed by the King (Vladimir Baratta) and his courtiers, who see him as a madman.

In the third act, Empedocles is seen in the streets of the city, preaching to the people about the transience of life and the inevitability of death. He attempts to gather a following, but the people of the city are not interested in his ideas. Empedocles' public speeches are juxtaposed with scenes of the King and his courtiers, who are seen scheming against him.

The final act takes place on the slopes of Mount Etna, where Empedocles has gone to fulfill his desire to leap into the volcano. The King and his courtiers have followed him there, hoping to prevent him from carrying out his plan. Empedocles is taunted and insulted by the King, but he remains steadfast in his determination to die. Finally, he silently climbs the slopes of the volcano and jumps into its fiery crater.

The Death of Empedocles is a slow-paced and meditative film, which explores themes of mortality and the fragility of human existence. The film is shot in a stark, minimalist style, with long takes and minimal dialogue. The landscapes of Sicily are beautifully photographed, and the film features several memorable sequences, including a hypnotic scene in which Empedocles walks through a field of wheat, which is then set on fire.

One of the most striking aspects of the film is the performance of Andreas von Rauch, who plays Empedocles with a calm and detached air. Von Rauch's performance conveys the sense of a man who has withdrawn from the world, and who is at peace with his decision to end his life. The other actors in the film are equally good, particularly Vladimir and Martina Baratta, who play the King and his daughter respectively.

Overall, The Death of Empedocles is a powerful and thought-provoking film, which offers a unique vision of ancient Greece. The film's combination of philosophical themes and cinematic poetry creates a deeply affecting experience, which lingers in the mind long after the final credits have rolled.