‘It’s a planet that has been hiding behind the sun, and now passes by us’

Kirsten Dunst, Charlotte Gainsborough, Alexander Skarsgård, Stellan Skarsgård, John Hurt, Kiefer Sutherland and Charlotte Rampling. Mainstream names make a unexpected but beautiful ensemble in this breathtaking masterpiece.

Lars Von Trier’s Melancholia (2011) follows the stormy relationship of two sisters, Justine (Dunst) and Claire (Gainsbourg), as what originally seems an idle threat of a new planet turns into possible impending disaster.  For an ‘end of the world’ film, this is a interesting new perspective. There is little panic, there isn’t a mass exodus, there is just the reality of the situation and the coping mechanisms we use as humans. This film is emotionally hypnotic, with the main fascination being Justine and how the planet’s arrival effects her behaviour.

The film is captivating on many levels. Wagner’s Tristen und Isolde weaves throughout the film, and the story flows along the suspensions of the melody, which commands the viewers, and compliments the unease of the characters and their final acceptance.  The casting is outstanding, with all performances being convincing. Dunst is brilliant as Justine who suffers from depression and goes through a break down after her wedding day ends negatively. The cinematography is also breathtaking, some of the scenes and images are imprinted permanently on my memory.

Melancholia is a stunning visual and emotional journey, give this film a chance.

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