In this episode of the Rewind & Revive podcast, I’m joined by Philip Marinello of The Substance Podcast to explore Malpertuis (1971), Harry Kümel’s baroque, labyrinthine cult classic — a film that blends horror, fantasy, and myth into something uniquely disorienting.

We dig into the film’s tangled production history, its adaptation of Jean Ray’s novel, and the way Malpertuis uses repetition, corridors, and theatricality to create a world where identity fractures and reality feels perpetually unstable.

We also discuss:

– Susan Hampshire’s astonishing multi-role performance

– Orson Welles’ unforgettable presence as Cassavius

– The film’s themes of illusion, power, and belief

– Why Malpertuis remains so elusive — and why it’s finally being rediscovered

Plus: thoughts on the film’s recent restoration by Radiance Films, and what it means to see Malpertuis properly contextualized and accessible today.

Follow Philip on Instagram, Letterboxd, and check out The Substance on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Music by Andre Abreu.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Podcasting Journeys

01:08 Introducing Malpertuis and Its Themes

05:41 The Film's Atmosphere and Initial Reactions

10:48 The Restoration and Physical Media Importance

14:51 Harry Kumel: The Filmmaker Behind Malpertuis

21:58 Adapting the Novel: Differences and Similarities

26:44 Kumel's Style: Genre or Surrealism?

29:07 Camouflage in Genre Filmmaking

30:45 Artistic Influences and Comparisons

35:45 Production Challenges and Orson Welles

36:47 Thematic Elements: Corridors and Repetition

49:00 Illusions and Identity in Malpertuis

54:17 Orson Welles: The Competitive Genius

55:52 The Power Dynamics of Malpertuis

01:01:09 The Mythic Trap Revealed

01:07:20 Ideological Implications and Historical Parallels

01:14:22 From Curiosity to Control: The Film's Evolution

01:21:54 Character Dynamics and Desires

01:22:28 The Carnival Scene: A Haunting Experience

01:24:16 The Descent into Chaos

01:26:12 Dreams and Reality: The Gaslighting of Jan

01:27:40 The Fractured Narrative of Malpertuis

01:30:14 Editing and Reception: The Film's Journey

01:35:03 Restoration and Rediscovery of Malpertuis

01:38:43 Final Thoughts on Malpertuis and Its Legacy