The Corpse of Anna Fritz (2015) is a Spanish horror film directed by Hernández Vicens, who also co-wrote the screenplay. Premiering at the South by Southwest Film Festival in Austin, Texas on March 15, 2015, this disturbing film delves into the darkest corners of human nature and the grotesque fascination with death. It pushes boundaries with its shocking narrative, creating a visceral experience that is both chilling and thought-provoking.

The film revolves around the sudden and unexplained death of a famous actress, Anna Fritz, who is found dead in a morgue. The story takes a dark turn when three young men, who work at the morgue, decide to take advantage of the opportunity to photograph and interact with the corpse. As they make increasingly reckless decisions, their actions spiral out of control, leading to devastating consequences. The film explores the lengths to which people can go when they are faced with a taboo situation, shedding light on the terrifying implications of their choices.

What makes The Corpse of Anna Fritz stand out is its exploration of themes such as obsession, exploitation, and the dehumanizing effects of death. The film’s premise—young men treating a dead body as a mere object for their perverse amusement—creates an uncomfortable tension throughout the story. The characters’ lack of morality and their increasing desperation are conveyed through strong performances, particularly by the lead actors, whose disturbing actions add to the film’s atmosphere of horror.

Hernández Vicens masterfully builds suspense, keeping the audience on edge with a story that is both simple and unnervingly effective. The film’s slow-burning tension and sense of dread are heightened by its minimalist setting, mainly confined to the morgue, which serves as both a physical and psychological cage for the characters. The stripped-down narrative leaves no room for distractions, forcing the audience to focus on the disturbing choices the characters make and the consequences they face.

In conclusion, The Corpse of Anna Fritz is a disturbing and intense horror film that will leave a lasting impression on viewers. Its unsettling premise, strong performances, and thought-provoking themes make it a standout in the genre. While not for the faint of heart, it’s a film that pushes the limits of what horror cinema can explore and challenges viewers to confront the darker sides of human curiosity and morality.