Das Martyrium des Peter OHey

Poetic fable about the sophisticated rape of civil rights by a totalitarian power. The orderly existence of Peter O'Hey and his family is shaken one day by the announcement that a tiger has taken up residence in his bathroom. The state, represented by a civil servant, a tax collector and a protocol chief, as well as the private company, represented by a scientist, a circus director and an old hunter, take a keen interest in this news and try to exploit the unusual situation for their personal interests. They besiege the apartment of Peter O'Hey and finally also claim his life by abusing him as a decoy for the tiger.

Directed by Peter Lilienthal, Das Martyrium des Peter OHey leans on a strong ensemble — Joachim Wichmann, Angelika Hurwicz, Thomas Rosengarten — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 1964.