V13

By: MJ Asuncion

V13 was interesting in putting two very well known historic figures, the founder of psychoanalysis Sigmund Freud (Alan Cumming) and a young Adolf Hitler (Samuel H. Levine), in one lens. I had not known they were both in Vienna at the same time so V13 gives a glimpse of what it would have been like during this period. Freud’s understanding and genuine loving nature is a huge contrast to Adolf’s overtly antisemitic feelings. Even as a young man, it is obvious the path Adolf is taking. You could feel his hatred and disgust jump off the screen.

Freud and Hitler have a common link with Hugo, played by Liam Aiken, who befriends Adolf. Hugo is inadvertently fighting between the two opposing beliefs. He has an unexplainable deep rooted hatred and feeling of antisemitism, but is also determined to seek therapy and analysis from Freud. Hugo helps to bridge the two lead characters’ storylines, as he navigates his inner turmoil. 

The movie has a lot to digest in terms of conversations. At times it was a bit difficult to follow and became somewhat convoluted in its storytelling. The strong performances of Alan Cumming (Freud) and Samuel H. Levine (Adolf) are both standout to drive the film. 

The writer / director Richard Ledes took an inventive perspective on a historic period and succeeded. The dramatic music and sound is well-suited for the scenes. The use of different perspectives and black & white shooting for Hugo’s therapy sessions with Freud made them more intimate and compelling.

The difficult themes hit a little close to home with what is presently happening in our country but are needed to drive discussions and conversation. Overall, V13 is a bold, innovative film examining a challenging subject matter.