Dancer in the Dark
It's only the last song if we let it be.
Overview
Selma, a Czech immigrant on the verge of blindness, struggles to make ends meet for herself and her son, who has inherited the same genetic disorder and will suffer the same fate without an expensive operation. When life gets too difficult, Selma learns to cope through her love of musicals, escaping life's troubles – even if just for a moment – by dreaming up little numbers to the rhythmic beats of her surroundings.
Backdrop
What makes this movie Worth Watching
Dancer in the Dark is a highly controversial film, known for its bleak portrayal of the American Dream and its unflinching depiction of suffering. Lars von Trier, the director, is known for pushing boundaries and challenging audiences, often provoking strong reactions with his work. The film's production was reportedly difficult, contributing to its polarizing reception.
- Björk's powerful and emotionally raw performance as Selma Ježková is unforgettable and deeply moving.
- The film blends elements of drama, tragedy, and musical, creating a unique and emotionally impactful cinematic experience.
- It explores profound themes of sacrifice, poverty, the American Dream, and the flaws within the justice system.
- The unconventional cinematography and use of music to convey Selma's inner world are visually and aurally striking.
Fun Facts
- Björk, despite winning Best Actress at Cannes, has stated that the filming experience was so traumatic that she vowed never to act again.
- The songs were co-written by Björk and often reflect Selma's internal emotional state, blending diegetic and non-diegetic sound.
- The film was shot using over 100 digital cameras to achieve a realistic, almost documentary-style feel, especially in the musical numbers.