"Cache" (The Hidden) is a mesmerizing mystery about a couple who is continually harassed by an unknown assailant. Even though it is a thriller, it touches upon issues relating to class and racial divisions. It also takes some well-deserved shots at smug, middle class liberals.

The film was made in France, but it was directed by the accomplished Austrian director, Michael Haneke. He also made "Code Unknown" (2001), which also starred the superb Juliette Binoche, and "Time of the Wolf" (2004). However, Haneke’s most remarkable film is probably "The Piano Teacher" (2002), which featured a devastating lead performance by Isabelle Huppert. "The Piano Teacher" plays at the Gene Siskel Center (Chicago) on January 14 and 17.

His new film, "Cache (Hidden)" is one of Haneke’s strongest and most critically acclaimed works. It won best director at the 2005 Cannes Film Festival, and it was nominated for the Golden Palm. This week, it also won the Chicago Film Critics Association award for best foreign film.

"Cache" features uncommonly strong performances all around--particularly from the leads, Daniel ("Jean de Florette") Auteuil and Julliette ("The Unbearable Lightness of Being") Binoche, who has become a French institution.

They play a privileged couple who are completely sheltered from harm and poverty. When they become crime victims, they are forced to confront some harsh realities about life.

Daniel Auteuil is George, a self-satisfied quasi intellectual, who hosts a cultural talk show similar to the "The Charlie Rose Show" on PBS. He is married to Ann, and they have a comfortable, conflict-free existence with their son.

However, something threatens to end their sleepwalking through life. George receives anonymous video tapes, which indicate someone is following both him and his family. Later, he begins to receive menacing and gory drawings in the mail.

If this were a Hollywood film, the scenario probably would have degenerated into a Mel Gibson film type revenge story. Instead, "Cache" takes a surprising turn. George ends up being guilty of an unjust act, and this serves to divide the audience’s sympathy. No one or perhaps everyone is guilty in "Cache."

"Cache" has one of the most shockingly effective endings of the year, and the film ends up having a devastating emotional effect. There are a few dull spots, but the end effect definitely redeems it.