Review of Dogville (2003) by Nefnie L — 16 Apr 2009

I didn't think I was going to be able to watch this film with chalk lines and fake door sounds, but soon into it, I was so taken by the story that it didn't bother me. In fact, it worked for this movie. The acting was superb. It makes a strong statement about humanity and power. Does power change humanity or just bring out what is already inside?

It's a long movie, but it definitely didn't feel that long. When an outsider, who is running away from the mob, comes to a very small and inclusive town, the townspeople reluctantly let her stay. Soon, they appreciate her as one of them; but slowly demand more and more out of her for their secrecy. Watching the townspeople slowly change their demeanor towards the outsider was fascinating. The ending lends itself to more thought and discussion but needed in this story.

Overall, thought-provoking, disturbing, and powerful.