The Night Porter is a 1973 adult film directed by Liliana Cavani. The story revolves around Max, a former SS officer, and Lucia, a former prisoner in a Nazi concentration camp. The reunion brings back their sadomasochistic relationship, impacting both of their lives.
Set in Vienna in 1957, Max works as a night porter and tends to the guests’ needs, including providing sexual services. When Lucia arrives with her husband, their past is reignited, leading to a renewal of their abusive relationship.
Max faces the threat of a show trial for his war crimes, and his former SS comrades aim to eliminate potential threats. As they uncover Lucia’s existence, they pressure Max to turn her over to them. As a result, Max and Lucia hide out in his apartment, evading his former friends.
The controversial film, Il Portiere di Notte, is known for the dramatization of the characters’ complex and damaging relationship. The movie delves into the psychological impact of their past and the manipulation in their present. It is considered a mix of drama and adult genres, with an R rating for its mature content.
