Fear of Fear (German: Angst vor der Angst) is a 1975 West German television film directed by Rainer Werner Fassbinder. It follows the life of a German housewife named Margot Staudte, who lives with her husband Kurt and their two children. After the birth of their second child, Margot begins experiencing bouts of anxiety and depression, which ultimately transform into an all-consuming fear that leaves her unable to function normally.
As her condition worsens, Margot seeks help from a number of doctors, but her erratic behavior and symptoms leave them baffled. Meanwhile, Kurt is increasingly frustrated and unsympathetic towards his wife, leading to strain on their marriage. Margot also struggles to connect with her sister-in-law, who seems to view her condition as a personal failing rather than an illness.
The film explores themes of mental illness, gender roles, and societal expectations, with many of Fassbinder's trademark tropes and motifs, including melodramatic music and lighting, and a focus on dysfunctional relationships. The film's protagonist, Margot, is portrayed with sensitivity and nuance by actress Margit Carstensen, who was a frequent collaborator with Fassbinder.
Overall, Fear of Fear is a powerful and often disturbing exploration of the effects of mental illness on an individual and their loved ones. It is a haunting and poignant portrayal of a woman struggling to find herself amidst a society that shuns her.