Strange events happen in a small village in the north of Germany during the years just before World War I, which seem to be ritual punishment. The abused and suppressed children of the villagers seem to be at the heart of this mystery.
Nominated for 2 Oscars. Another 58 wins & 39 nominations.
Top Critics Reviews
rotten:
The White Ribbon lunges hungrily for serious art-film credibility. Don't be fooled.
– Ann Hornaday,
Washington Post,
12 Feb 2010
fresh:
Haneke tells this tale a bit too patiently for my taste. But the metaphors are unmistakable, as is the power of the film's message.
– Roger Moore,
Orlando Sentinel,
17 Feb 2010
fresh:
Writer-director Michael Haneke doesn't pull any punches, but then he doesn't throw any wild ones, either. His filmmaking shows precisely the sort of obsession with control that the movie itself is denouncing. Interesting, you've got to admit.
– Tom Long,
Detroit News,
19 Feb 2010
fresh:
The White Ribbon is a stark, contemplative and hauntingly brilliant film.
– Calvin Wilson,
St. Louis Post-Dispatch,
25 Feb 2010
fresh:
As for Haneke's handling of the material, his directing is immaculate. Every moment is the product of a penetrating mind and a steady talent.