Belladonna of Sadness

In 1973, "Belladonna of Sadness" unfolds as a darkly stylized tale of revenge and transformation, centered on Jeanne, a peasant woman brutally raped by feudal authorities on her wedding night, forcing her to seek power through a pact with the devil. As she rises from poverty and marginalization, her growing influence provokes suspicion and fear, ultimately leading to accusations of witchcraft and violent persecution. Characterized by its unconventional visual approach, the film blends erotic, religious, and psychedelic motifs, addressing themes of misogyny, feudal oppression, and social revolt.