Sisi & I

Irma Sztáray, a single middle-aged woman, is pressured by her overbearing mother to accept a position as a lady-in-waiting. The backdrop is the late 19th century, in Hungary, where societal expectations weigh heavily on her decisions.

Irma arrives at the extravagant estate on the idyllic Greek island of Corfu. She is immediately engulfed by a sense of fear and trepidation, particularly after a mortifying interview with her predecessor.

As Irma begins her duties, she faces the demanding expectations of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, also known as Sisi. This adjustment requires her to sacrifice her own desires and comforts.

In an effort to gain favor with Sisi, Irma adopts a more austere, Japanese-inspired aesthetic. This transformation signals her growing allegiance to the Empress, despite her initial reluctance.

Irma and Sisi embark on a journey that takes them from Corfu to Algiers, and through Bavaria to England. These travels deepen the complexities of their co-dependent relationship.

During their travels, an intimate yet fraught bond develops between Irma and Sisi. Despite this closeness, Sisi's controlling nature casts a shadow over their relationship.

The women return to Vienna, where Sisi's husband, the Emperor, cruelly assaults her. This horrifying incident marks a dramatic turning point in Sisi's life and their dynamic.

In the wake of the traumatic assault, Sisi turns to Irma for support, compelling her to take a dark path. Irma is urged to carry out a gruesome act of revenge against the Emperor.

Irma murders the Emperor with a makeshift shiv, executing Sisi's vengeful plan. This act is framed to look like the work of an Italian anarchist, showcasing the lengths they will go for loyalty.

The act of murder irrevocably alters the course of Irma and Sisi's lives. It illustrates the dark depths of power, revenge, and the harsh realities of their aristocratic existence.

Following the murder, the power dynamics between Irma and Sisi become increasingly complicated. Irma's once unyielding fidelity is now clouded by the weight of her actions and the looming consequences.

As they navigate the fallout from their schemes, both women confront the struggles inherent in their aristocratic lives. Loyalty is now intertwined with betrayal, creating a tense atmosphere.

With the aftermath of the murder weighing heavily on her, Sisi grapples with her role as a ruler and a survivor. Her relationship with Irma also trembles under the pressure of their shared betrayal.

Irma transitions from a subservient lady-in-waiting into a woman grappling with the reality of her choices. The experience reshapes her identity permanently as she navigates through her newfound freedom and guilt.