Maîtresse is a French drama film directed by Barbet Schroeder and released in 1975. The film explores the relationship between Olivier, a petty thief, and Ariane, a professional dominatrix.
At the beginning of the film, Olivier breaks into Ariane's home hoping to find valuables to steal. Instead, he discovers a hidden dungeon where Ariane works as a dominatrix. Ariane catches Olivier and forces him to become her slave, but she also develops a fascination for him.
Despite their unconventional beginnings, Olivier and Ariane begin a relationship. Olivier becomes more involved in Ariane's work, even accompanying her to a fetish club where he participates in a public S&M session with her. However, when Olivier discovers that Ariane has a son from a previous relationship, he becomes determined to rescue her from her lifestyle.
Olivier decides to kidnap Ariane's son and hold him for ransom in order to force her to leave her profession. As the situation spirals out of control, Olivier and Ariane's relationship is tested in unexpected ways.
Maîtresse explores themes of power dynamics, sexuality, and the limits of love and obsession. The film was controversial upon its release due to its graphic sexual content and depiction of BDSM culture. However, it has since become a cult classic and is considered a significant work of French cinema.
