Bofsensai Seen English subtitled means I wouldn't normally review a non English language film, as in judging you may miss the nuances imparted in the original language: (e.g. at one time, young Jan is told by his bemused 'cougar' to remove his 'underhosen', translated in my copy as 'drawers'; which is unintentionally amusing because in English, drawers are not only resolutely female, but dated back to early Twentieth Century use!): however, although cinematically this is otherwise, rather run of the mill (dull monochrome, representing the dreariness of post wall fall Germany?) boy meets gal = woman, loses .. standard romance, but with twist in that, really, it's the subject matter explored that demands the attention, being in effect the corollary of those Stateside overtly patriarchal s&m focused '50 Shades', '91/2 Weeks', 'Secretary' and the likes. By which, the state the obvious English translated title more salaciously but essentially misrepresents this exploration of the S&M theme, since its original proper German title more insightfully sums up what is to unfold i.e. as more accurately translated as 'Pursued' (even rather than 'Hounded'): in which frame of mind, it well deserves a watch with full credit especially to young Kostya Ullmann playing an insouciant recalcitrant sixteen year old (although actually 22 by then) in what must have been a difficult pitch to portray as enamoured of not only a male finding pain awakening him from his prior crime-life existence, but that to be inflicted by elder woman! I.e. yes, a sort of classic F/M S&M scenario: this is even more arresting in knowledge that two women concocted the plot (big kudos then to writer Susanne Billig, as realised for the viewing by director Angelina Maccarone.) Then, Maryann Kroyman, well portrays the initially quite confident, authoritative probation officer, with stern (German like!) commands to the reformed youngsters she's charged with supervising, yet whom is at first mystified, uncertain at her potential inner sadist that her charge begins to unexpectedly arouse in her, so to later deliver an excellent line to her husband to indicate how such role can manifest and awaken a previously patriarchally suppressed passion - this particularly pointed, too, when earlier he had callously advised her that his adultery is 'nothing - just sex', yet when confronted by her desire - (which is even 'not sex'!) - he hypocritically berates her for her own awakening desires. By which, her final doomed, hopeless realisation scene is painful to behold (Maccarone should have held the camera shot even longer, though) - sorta reminiscent of the famed finale of Bob Hoskins in 'The Long Good Friday'. Well worth double (treble) billings with those other chastisement S&M films (e.g. given above), and for its bravery to broach a still mostly completely unacknowledged sexual penchant in mainstream cinema. (Although on that changing and for the younger generation too, see Larry Clark's recent 'Marfa Girl'.)

Bene Cumb It happens sometimes that a new person or event could trigger a recognition that you are so fond of something uncomfortable or even prohibited... An example of this we see in Verfolgt where both protagonists - a 16-years-old lad and a 50-years-old woman obtain new, sexually-related experiences. But as they live in a world of laws and prejudices, their action - though of mutual consent - give rise to problems both at physical and emotional level.All this here is skilfully, without sensationalism and pseudo-eroticism, depicted, and splendid performances (particularly Kostja Ullmann as Jan Winkler and Maren Kroymann as Elsa Seifert) let the film follow smoothly and without blah feelings. Whipping in German atmosphere is not, of course, very erotic, neither is black-and-white very sensual, but it is not disturbing - alike in many other "artistic" films. The ending, however, could have been more catchy, with a twist or something.Recommended, unless you feel embarrassed of the topics of SM and/or intergenerational relationships.

adamsoch-1 The mature, married couple are having an honest discussion about sex, and the way the film is unfolding it gives us the feeling of la laissez-faire, modern living. Not so fast. Elsa is the probation officer, Ralf is the husband and Jan is a 16-year-old good looking, strange delinquent. A very different, passionate and moving bond is formed between the Elsa and Jan, a forbidden love. Why something so beautiful need to be deplored or destroyed by some who do not understand it? Jan is young and different, Jan is attracted to something even he can't explain but let his feelings go, go as afar as they take him. Elsa, hesitant at first but is going along. "Punish Me" is a gentle film about violent desires, well written, beautifully filmed, impeccably acted and masterfully directed by Angelina Maccarone. It is full of tension, delight and surprises with a sensible and somehow open-ended, tender finish.

Jay Harris A German Black & White film about a 50 year old married Probation Officer & her Masochistic near 17 year old charge.This sounds like it would be a sleazy sensationalistic movie, WRONG. The subject matter us handled tastefully The screenplay is well thought out, the direction is tight & concise.The acting is near flawless, especially by both leads.We learn right away about our young heroes leanings. He looks at his bruised side in the shower almost lovingly, (due to a playground mishap)He then meets his probation officer--our middle aged housewife-She slowly realizes what the lad needs & eventually gives it to him, THese scenes are not overly brutal,but very effective,We also learn about her not so happy home life.Jan Winkler play the young lad (actually he is 23 now). I do hope he makes some English language films as he is very talented.The entire cast & production are first rate. I highly recommend this movie.There is nudity,but tastefully done,Ratings ***1/2 (out of 4) 95 points (out of 100) IMDb 9 (out of 10