Review of Melancholia (2011) by Brian S — 22 Jun 2012
A tremendous film that questions the usefulness of hope in the face of certain oblivion. If that sounds like an incredibly depressing premise for a film, it is, and von Trier and his cast squeeze every drop of emotion out of it.
Word of warning: this is NOT a film to watch first thing in the morning. The build-up from the banality of pointless ritualized celebration and the futility of work to the literally shattering climax in which all is blown away before the viewer's eyes is staggering.
In the end, von Trier tells us, hope is for children and dullards. All is lost and we might as well accept our inevitable extinction with whatever dignity we can muster and extend a little kindness to the vulnerable in the process.
Melancholia is potent wormwood; have an anti-depressant at hand for use immediately after viewing.
This review of Melancholia (2011) was written by Brian S on 22 Jun 2012.
Melancholia has generally received positive reviews.
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