The central critical debate surrounding the movie Antichrist (2009) is whether it is a deeply misogynist text or a profound critique of historical misogyny. In the film, She discovers notes for a book she was writing on the history of persecuting women—witch hunts, torture, and the association of women with the devil. She concludes: "Nature is Satan's church."

The film opens with a visually striking prologue in black-and-white, depicting the death of a young couple's child while they are engaged in intercourse. This sets the stage for a visceral examination of mourning, guilt, and the breakdown of communication. Dafoe plays a rationalist therapist attempting to treat his wife (Gainsbourg), who is crippled by sorrow and anxiety. The therapy sessions quickly devolve as they retreat to a remote cabin called "Eden". Symbolism and the "Depression Trilogy" Antichrist