SİSİ & I

SİSİ & I

SİSİ & I (SISI&ICH), 2022
Germany, Switzerland, Austria | DCP, Color, 132’| German, English, French
Director: Frauke Finsterwalder
Cast: Sandra Hüller, Angela Winkler, Tom Rhys Harries

Even 125 years after the execution of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, affectionately known as Sisi, she continues to inspire European cinema as a feminist icon. This film distinguishes itself by focusing on Sisi’s head maid and right-hand woman, Irma (played by Sandra Hüller). Irma, an eccentric character, accompanies Sisi during the final four years of her life, and their peculiar romantic relationship becomes increasingly complicated as the film progresses. The film, with moments of dark comedy, seamlessly blends different historical eras through the use of 1990s’ female-led pop songs and the vibrant and imaginative designs by costume designer Tanja Hausner, all the while celebrating female empowerment.

Past Programs
Forms of Forgetting
June 8–18, 2023

Istanbul Modern Cinema’s opening program takes its name from director Burak Çevik’s new film Forms of Forgetting, making its world premiere at the 73rd Berlinale Film Festival and detailing the remembrance process of a couple coming together after a 14-year separation.