Madseeing

In sequence, we see an acrobat, a nurse, a German officer, and a majorette. They are alone in their own white room, and are wearing lots of makeup: black around their eyes and mouths, almost like a skull. They move tensely, and radiate a sense of desperation and fear, with many soundless screams. They are in a psychiatric hospital. The final shot consists of a pan along an empty, sterile corridor with empty white rooms, from which frightening sounds emanate.

Directed by Paul de Mol, Madseeing leans on a strong ensemble — Luc Boyer, Ceciel Brand, Ruth de Gier — 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 screen titles of 1974.