Malpertuis by Harry Kümel (1971) | Episode 04

In this episode of the Rewind & Revive podcast, I’m joined by Philip Marinello of The Substance Podcast to explore Malpertuis (1971), Harry Kümel’s baroque, labyrinthine cult classic — a film that blends horror, fantasy, and myth into something uniquely disorienting.We dig into the film’s tangled production history, its adaptation of Jean Ray’s novel, and the way Malpertuis uses repetition, corridors, and theatricality to create a world where identity fractures and reality feels perpetually unstable.We also discuss: – Susan Hampshire’s astonishing multi-role performance – Orson Welles’ unforgettable presence as Cassavius – The film’s themes of illusion, power, and belief – Why Malpertuis remains so elusive — and why it’s finally being rediscoveredPlus: thoughts on the film’s recent restoration by Radiance Films, and what it means to see Malpertuis properly contextualized and accessible today.Follow Philip on Instagram, Letterboxd, and check out The Substance on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.Music by Andre Abreu.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Podcasting Journeys01:08 Introducing Malpertuis and Its Themes05:41 The Film's Atmosphere and Initial Reactions10:48 The Restoration and Physical Media Importance14:51 Harry Kumel: The Filmmaker Behind Malpertuis21:58 Adapting the Novel: Differences and Similarities26:44 Kumel's Style: Genre or Surrealism?29:07 Camouflage in Genre Filmmaking30:45 Artistic Influences and Comparisons35:45 Production Challenges and Orson Welles36:47 Thematic Elements: Corridors and Repetition49:00 Illusions and Identity in Malpertuis54:17 Orson Welles: The Competitive Genius55:52 The Power Dynamics of Malpertuis01:01:09 The Mythic Trap Revealed01:07:20 Ideological Implications and Historical Parallels01:14:22 From Curiosity to Control: The Film's Evolution01:21:54 Character Dynamics and Desires01:22:28 The Carnival Scene: A Haunting Experience01:24:16 The Descent into Chaos01:26:12 Dreams and Reality: The Gaslighting of Jan01:27:40 The Fractured Narrative of Malpertuis01:30:14 Editing and Reception: The Film's Journey01:35:03 Restoration and Rediscovery of Malpertuis01:38:43 Final Thoughts on Malpertuis and Its Legacy