The Corpse of Anna Fritz (2015) is a Spanish horror film directed by Hernández Vicens, who also co-wrote the screenplay. This dark and disturbing thriller explores the boundaries of morality, human curiosity, and the consequences of betrayal. The film first premiered at the South by Southwest Film Festival in Austin, Texas, on March 15, 2015, and has since gained attention for its unsettling premise and intense, provocative storyline.

The plot centers around the mysterious death of Anna Fritz, a famous actress whose body is discovered in a morgue. Three young men—medical student Pau, his friend Javi, and another student, Ivan—decide to take advantage of the opportunity to secretly observe and record Anna’s corpse in a series of disturbing actions. Their morbid curiosity soon spirals into a terrifying game of power, manipulation, and deceit as they become entangled in the consequences of their actions. The film delves deep into the psychological and emotional effects of their choices, exploring themes of consent, exploitation, and the dehumanizing aspects of voyeurism.

One of the most striking aspects of The Corpse of Anna Fritz is its ability to build tension through its minimalist setting and claustrophobic atmosphere. The film primarily takes place within the confines of the morgue, and its confined space amplifies the feeling of entrapment and impending doom. As the young men push boundaries and violate moral codes, the tension rises, and the audience is drawn into their increasingly dangerous and unethical behavior. This isolated setting serves to heighten the sense of urgency and desperation as the situation spirals further out of control.

The film also shines in its exploration of the characters’ psychological descent. Initially, Pau, Javi, and Ivan appear to be young men simply curious about the body of a celebrity, but as the plot progresses, their actions reveal deeper layers of selfishness, fear, and regret. The film makes the audience question the morality of their choices, providing no easy answers. The characters’ transformation from seemingly innocent students to individuals capable of horrific actions serves as a commentary on the darker side of human nature and the lengths to which people will go to satisfy their desires, even at the expense of others.

The performance of the cast is another strength of the film. The actors portray the emotional conflict and moral struggle of their characters convincingly, drawing viewers into the moral quandary at the heart of the story. The character of Anna Fritz, played by actress Alba Ribas, is also notable. Although her character is deceased for much of the film, Ribas brings a haunting presence to the role, evoking both vulnerability and strength, which adds to the film’s chilling atmosphere.

The Corpse of Anna Fritz also stands out for its exploration of horror in a more psychological and disturbing vein, rather than relying on overt gore or supernatural elements. While the film does contain moments of violence and shock, the true horror comes from the moral degradation of the characters and the stark consequences of their actions. The film challenges the audience to confront uncomfortable questions about privacy, consent, and the objectification of others, all while maintaining an eerie and unsettling tone that lingers long after the credits roll.

In conclusion, The Corpse of Anna Fritz is a gripping and thought-provoking horror film that explores themes of human depravity, exploitation, and the consequences of crossing moral boundaries. With its tense atmosphere, strong performances, and psychological depth, the film is a chilling exploration of the darker sides of human nature. While disturbing and uncomfortable, it leaves a lasting impact on the audience, serving as a reminder of the dangers of curiosity without compassion and the ethical consequences of our actions.