It was not unexpected that Lars von Trier could take a catastrophic event like the end of the world, and make something extraordinary with it.
The film opens with a prologue accompanied by the prelude to Wagner’s Tristan and Isolde. It is a surreal segment that features Kirsten Dunst, in her wedding dress, wandering through a forest as dead birds and insects plummet from the sky. Her sister walks across a golf course and is devoured by it the way quicksand engulfs anyone who tries to cross it. Intercut with these startling images is footage of a planet hurtling toward earth.
The planet is Melancholia. The name echoes the state of mind of Justine, a young bride who is barely holding it together at her reception in the swanky home of her sister and brother-in-law. Tension seethes between the family members, especially between the sisters’ divorced parents. Justine’s behavior grows more bizarre as the evening goes on until it threatens her new marriage.
In the film’s second half, which takes place days or weeks later, when the two planets are on the verge of colliding, Justine shows herself to be the more sane of the two siblings. She acknowledges the reality of the situation they face rather than hiding behind facts or denial the way her family do.
With outstanding performances, gorgeous visuals and a high-concept premise, Lars von Trier once again proves himself to be one of the most visionary and interesting filmmakers working today.
Kate’s Score: 8.5/10
(Admit One’s James and Abby also loved Melancholia and both gave it 9/10)
Have you seen Melancholia? What did you make of Lars von Trier’s visual feast?
