Freud Season 1 Episode 4 Totem and Taboo

Set in 19th century Vienna, the Freud season 1 episode 4, named "Totem and Taboo," presents another dramatic tale of the father of psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud, where he tries to unravel the mystery of a young woman who's been suffering from a hysteria-like syndrome.

As the episode begins, Freud is seen treating Annabella, a troubled young woman ushered into his care by her wealthy father, who is desperate for a cure. Annabella's medical record reveals her passing through the hands of several doctors, with no visible results. However, Freud, with his unconventional approach, slowly starts to uncover the root of Annabella's condition, which seems to be stemming from a sense of guilt, related to the death of her lovely sister seven years ago.

While Freud attempts to use his signature "talking cure" to treat Annabella, he continues his research on the topic of incest in his side projects. He discovers a disturbing pattern among his patients that revolves around repressed memories, dreams, and taboo relationships.

The episode also explores Freud's relationship with his wife, Marta, and his mentor, Dr. Charcot, who is portrayed as a rival in the world of academia.

As the story progresses, we see the characters involved in a series of twists and turns that take the narrative in unexpected directions. Annabella, whom Freud had almost cured, disappears, and the mysterious circumstances of her disappearance further complicate matters.

The "Totem and Taboo" episode is, once again, gripping and intense, like the previous ones, and presents an intriguing central narrative that delves deep into the human psyche. It beautifully captures the essence of the evolving psychoanalytic theories of Freud that permeated the era, right from the Oedipus complex to the Electra complex and the Jungian archetypes.

The episode is masterfully crafted, with each scene carefully designed to convey the necessary emotions and inner turmoil of the characters. It's beautifully shot, with a brooding melancholia that dominates the atmosphere of Vienna in the late 1800s. The subtle use of lighting and color grading accentuates the mood and underlines the themes of repressed sexuality, guilt, and human desire.

The acting of Robert Finster, who plays Freud, and Ella Rumpf, who plays Annabella, is top-notch and incredibly convincing. They display a natural chemistry that pulls the viewer into their world, making the story relatable and engaging.

In conclusion, "Totem and Taboo," the fourth episode of the Freud series, is a must-watch for psychoanalysis enthusiasts and drama lovers alike. The narrative will evoke many questions, engage your intellect, and keep you glued to your screens, wondering how the mystery unfolds.