04) DogvilleDirected by Lars Von TrierReleased in 2003Wow. Writing a shot review for Lars Von Trier's examination of American life could be the most challenging aspect of this project. No words could do justice to the disturbing, chilling and yet utterly unique masterpiece that is Dogville; it's simply an experience you have to witness for yourself.
The story focuses on Grace, a fugitive on the run, who hides away in the town of Dogville. She wins over the simple folk of the town with her honesty, kindness and good nature, but when things get tough, the people of Dogville bear their teeth.
Lars Von Trier's intention here is, quite clearly, to present the worst qualities of American society. And he does that so well through his direction. For example, the entire movie is set on a sound stage with only chalk outlines to mark the houses, shops and streets of the town. It's an interesting way to film a movie but one that is so perfect for Dogville as it allows the audience to fully see the full brutality of what happens behind the walls in this seemingly simple suburban town. Moreover, I suppose shows how fake the generosity and kindness of the citizens is.
Also, he brings out phenomenal performances from his small but star-studded cast as they ultimately capture the worst qualities of human beings from greed and deceit to jealously and hatred. They're so impressive, in fact, that as the film approaches its climax, you almost applaud Grace's murderous revenge because you hate the characters with such intensity. However, as the slaughter begins, you feel guilty and ashamed for these thoughts.
This, to me, is a tremendous thing about the movie: It toys with your desires and thoughts and emotions by, at first, placing you in the shoes of each and every character, allowing you to sympathise with them, then later showing the effects that those feelings could have.
The running time is almost 3 hours long and there are moments when it is draining to watch, but from the opening shot of the soundstage town it's impossible to draw your attention away from such a brilliantly daring and completely outstanding piece of cinema.
5/5
3 comments:
Argh. Von Trier doesn't do it for me. I like a little pretense now and then but he takes it too far. Same goes for Breaking the Waves and Dancer in the Dark, as does all their lead actress performances, which are incredible. There's good and bad qualities for all of them but they balance out so I pretend I'm indifferent for arguments sake and slap a 5/10 down. I've read all about the subtext but I just can't justify the presentation or delivery. Oh well, same words spoken through different lips ring better or worse in certain people's ears.
- Jack Moulton
Dear Daniel,
Watch something good please. k thx :)
Love,
- Jack Moulton
I never realised how picky you are with your films, Jack! I've now watched four films and you haven't liked any of them! Haha. But I can perfectly understand anyone's arguments about Dogville. It's a film that I imagine will have it's fanatics and have it's haters. Much like Breaking The Waves. So many people rave about how good that film is and I can't stand it. Well, with the exception of Emily. :)
There's still 496 to go so I'm sure you'll find something to like! :P
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