Review of Melancholia (2011) by Kriss T — 20 Oct 2016
Kirsten Dunst stars in Lars Von Trier's sci-fi extravaganza which investigates the internal situations of individuals on Earth whilst science threatens to end humanity. The film is split into two halves following one of two sisters each time as they both battle depression and anxiety issues.
It is in this first half where we learn more of Justine, played by Dunst, who deteriorates rapidly during her lavish wedding day and the second is Claire, her sister, struggling to cope with her sister's downfall and the fact that she may never see her family again.
Justine's section is fantastic. The slow burn look at a person's fall from grace. We never quite know why she is like she is which makes it feel all the more real. Despite only spending a night with these characters it is as if you have known them for much longer with each one fleshed out and boasting depth.
The second half however begins to drag and remove any initial enjoyment. It starts well but by the climax Melancholia has out stayed it's welcome. The title is for the mysterious planet that threatens to collide with Earth and it is this 'character' that is the issue with the film.
If it is to be as pivotal as it is then the first half needs more resemblance to it and there is very little science fiction elements in there. However it is this area that could easily have been removed and the drama being left to the humans of the story.
Von Trier has gone to lengths and depths for this film and it, at times, is mesmerising but ultimately the long running time and the second half do deflate it. Dunst is excellent and deserved more than just the Best Actress at Cannes awards, and Von Trier's script feels real and researched.
If only he hadn't of taken it so far this could have been a masterpiece.
This review of Melancholia (2011) was written by Kriss T on 20 Oct 2016.
Melancholia has generally received positive reviews.
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