The Seventh Continent (1989)

The story begins with Anna reading heartfelt letters addressed to her in-laws while Georg shares his work successes. This sets the tone for their seemingly idyllic yet ultimately unsettling family life, hinting at deeper issues lurking beneath the surface.

In 1988, the family's daily existence is explored, showcasing their discontent with a sterile and monotonous life. The contrast between their public achievements and private struggles becomes increasingly evident, highlighting their shared unhappiness.

As the third segment transitions to 1989, the family is shown leaving their grandparents' home after a visit. This moment signifies a shift in their narrative, serving as a backdrop for the critical decisions they are about to make.

The next day, Georg reads aloud a letter written for his parents-in-law, detailing a significant decision made by him and Anna. This letter signifies their intent to leave their current life behind, which marks a pivotal moment in the narrative.

In a series of poignant montages, the couple decides to abandon their previous lives. This pivotal choice includes resigning from their jobs, closing bank accounts, and ultimately preparing for a new life in Australia, motivated by the notion of escaping their past.

As part of their transition, Georg and Anna begin selling their car and acquiring tools for their upcoming journey. This act symbolizes their willingness to detach from their material possessions, reflecting an eerie sense of resolve.

While contemplating their decision, Georg reflects on Eva's bravery in the face of death. Her fearlessness serves as a catalyst for their choice, reinforcing their commitment to take her with them, even as they confront the emotional weight of such a decision.

In a shocking scene, the family gathers for a lavish meal and then engages in the mechanical destruction of their belongings. This chilling act of detachment showcases their psychological state, reflecting a profound disregard for their past.

An unsettling moment occurs as the family tears apart their currency and flushes it down the toilet. This powerful metaphor represents their desire to obliterate reminders of their former lives, reinforcing the theme of escape.

In a moment of emotional turmoil, Georg smashes their grand fish tank, unleashing a torrent of anguish, particularly from Eva. This act serves as a brief fracture in their facade, exposing the deep-seated pain that permeates their lives.

As the narrative unfolds, the family's despair culminates in a tragic overdose, where Eva, Anna, and Georg each succumb to pills mixed with water. Their individual struggles manifest in this heartbreaking conclusion, depicting their collective hopelessness.

In a final, desperate gesture, Georg inscribes the names and dates of his family's death on the wall. This somber act becomes a testament to their final moments, leaving his own time marked with a question mark, representing uncertainty and despair.

An envelope meant for Georg's parents-in-law is affixed to the door, symbolizing his ultimate act of communication amidst tragedy. It raises questions about his intentions, leaving a haunting sense of ambiguity in the wake of their collective demise.

The film concludes with a somber epilogue detailing the aftermath of Georg's actions. His in-laws are left bewildered, grappling with the confusion surrounding their son-in-law's intentions as a police investigation reveals no signs of foul play.