Melancholia (2011)
Brief review: Over the years, Danish film-maker Lars von Trier provoked our minds with many unusual film, and "Melancholia" is no exception. Basically, the movie is split up in two parts. The first part is called "Justine", which is the name of the main character, and it depicts the film's titular state. Kirsten Dunst delivers an award-worthy performance as the emotionally confused Justine, whose mood is a rollercoaster of ups and downs. The second part, called "Claire", is more about paranoia and frustration, and also the fictional part of the movie, which shows us the end of the world in a way we've never experienced before. Here, the main focus is on Charlotte Gainsbourg, and she does a terrific job in portraying her despaired character, Claire. "Melancholia" definitely lives up to its title - the mood of the movie is depressing and constantly melancholic. On one hand, that's understandable, since that's what the director intended, but on the other hand, it may become too tedious for some viewers. Shot in a 'handycam' style, "Melancholia" is weirdly artsy, visually. There are some truly stunning shots, especially in the beginning, that mesmerize with their bizarre beauty, but the overall tone of the film is intentionally dark and deeply gloomy.
Overall summary: Like all the other Trier films, "Melancholia" isn't everyone's cup of tea - it's as moody as its lead character, and as bizarre and pretentious as its creator, however, the film is wonderfully acted, and depicts self-destruction and depression beautifully.
Overall summary: Like all the other Trier films, "Melancholia" isn't everyone's cup of tea - it's as moody as its lead character, and as bizarre and pretentious as its creator, however, the film is wonderfully acted, and depicts self-destruction and depression beautifully.
14 comments:
If I'm in the right mood for it, I'll watch. Last time I watched a really depressing movie (Pan's Labyrinth) I was bummed for days.
Ah, I love "Pan's Labyrinth". It's one of my all time favorite movies. It was depressing, yet moving, bizarre yet visually-breathtaking. Del Toro is a genius!
I do love darkly melodramatic films, but I definitely have to be in the mood. You've got me intrigued, though. ;)
Mel, this one definitely requires a specific mood to be 'enjoyed'. I think I was in the right mood when I saw it 3 days ago. :)
I love the review! It definitely has me wanting to see it even more now. I was so excited to see it and then a friend of mine told me how horrible it was (without any explanation) so I put off seeing it right away. I'm definitely seeing it now. It sounds pretty interesting plus I love Kirsten Dunst!
Ah, thank you so much, Nicole. I'm happy you liked it and even happier that it made you wanna see the film even more. "Melancholia" is hard-to-watch, yet somewhat mesmerizing. I think you'll love it. I love Kristen, as well. She's so underrated, it's crazy.
I've been wanting to see this one for a while. I think it's on demand so I can watch it at home. I am curious about the promos of Kristen Dunst floating in a creek in her wedding gown.
Mariah, if it's on demand you should definitely check it out. It's not a pleasant movie by all means, but it's worth a watch.
Von Trier is really hit-and-miss for me. He has directed some of the best and some of the worst movies I've seen.
This looks right up my alley though. I like the very over-the-top problem and the very intimate approach Von Trier is taking on it.
Excellent review
Ben, hit-and-miss describes von Trier perfectly. I hated Dogvylle so much, I couldn't even handle it.
Thank you so much for the compliment. :)
Great review!
It's not as amazing as previous Trier movies, but still I pretty much enjoyed it, especially because of the amazing acting and the mindblowing opening scene.
Nice share, you made me yearn for it even more. Have no idea when this will be distributed over my side. I've been waiting for it since Cannes in May.
How will this compare up with say, The Tree of Life?
Harry, thank you so much!:)
Well, I'm not sure that von Trier has many great movies, but this one ends up somewhere between good and great. :)
The opening sequence was a work of art! Loved it!
J-Son, I still haven't seen Malick's Tree of Life. I'm not sure if I'll survive it to be honest. I'll check it out when I'm in the right mood for it. Melancholia is very good, but hardly something sensational.
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