27.11.24, 20:30, The Asthenic Syndrome (1989)

Wikipedia defines asthenia (from the Greek ἀσθένεια, asthéneia) as general body weakness caused by severe illness. Nikolai suffers from it and it is no fun. His existence as a sleazy teacher of equally impressively indifferent pupils is far from enviable. Recently widowed Natasha, too, is struggling and can barely contain her rage. However, the serious illness that is the cause of their misery cannot be found in any medical lexicon. She is called Soviet life in the 1980s. Or maybe even life in modern times tout court.

Kira Muratova's pleasantly (?) disturbed chronicle of the constant absurdities, discomforts and insults inflicted on modern man is fittingly split into two formally and narratively distinct parts - one in black and white, one in colour - that spy on each other through the gap between fact and fiction. The stories of furious widow Natasha and lethargic teacher Nikolai form the double sledgehammer blow with which The Asthenic Syndrome demolishes the walls between fantasy and reality, rebellion and resignation.

This film will be introduced by film sheriff Bart Versteirt.