Review of Melancholia (2011) by Kyle20Ellis — 28 Mar 2022

While Melancholia is not a perfect film and I can totally understand the polarisation, I found myself very much impressed by it. Some of the dialogue is rather awkward, one or two of the characters sketchy and there are a few ideas that are were introduced and broached but could have been explored more.

The pros outweigh the cons though, because it is a ravishing film to look at. The settings are breathtaking, and while the cinematography has a technique that is not going to be everybody's cup of tea Melancholia was an example of its utilisation being effective and somewhat necessary.

The music is likewise amazing, Wagner's Tristan and Isolde is one of my favourite pieces and was in sync with the visuals perfectly, very like a symphony on film. The story, while slowly paced, has emotional complexity and the groom's love and affection is done very tenderly.

Its hybrid of European art-house and Hollywood sci-fi is very interesting. It is not an easy movie to like and get invested in straight away and does I think need to be seen more than once, but on repeat viewings you get more out of it and is rewarding as a result.

The opening sequence is truly arresting and one of the best opening sequences of any film in recent years, while the ending is similarly moving. Lars Von Trier's direction is accomplished and never amateurish, again not for all tastes(I know many people who have a wide ranging taste in film and have never warmed to Von Trier).

Other than the visuals and the opening, it was the acting that made the film as good as it was. Kirsten Dunst earned best actress and deservedly for a courageous- and her most meaty, performance. Charlotte Gainsburg is more composed but is a very well-characterised and affecting contrast.

John Hurt and Charlotte Rampling as the parents give droll turns, while Udo Kier is appropriately surly. In conclusion, a very well film but understandably polarising.