MELANCHOLIA (2011) ****1/2 D: Lars von Trier. Kirsten Dunst, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Kiefer Sutherland, John Hurt, Charlotte Rampling
"Melancholia" is a film about the end of the world. It is also a film about two sisters.
The film begins where it ends as we witness the Earth's final moments. However, unlike most doomsday films the images are very surreal, dreamlike, lyrical, moving.
This is a disaster film that looks at depression and the toll it takes on the individuals and the people around them. Justine, powerfully played by Dunst, is coming apart and her sister Claire, played equally well by Gainsbourg, does her best to support her.
As the titular planet makes its way towards Earth, how these people react to their imminent end is a powerful and moving experience. Seriously, what would you do in the final moments?
The performances are outstanding with Dunst deserving an Oscar nod. Not your typical von Trier film but easily one of his best.
This is my favorite film of the year, so far.
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