There are some movies that leave you simply scratching your head. MELANCHOLIA not only made me scratch my head, but also left me unable to stop thinking about it for hours after watching the final credits roll. It's not a great movie. It's not a terrible movie. It's immensely watchable and at times immensely frustrating. One thing it never is is dull. I couldn't take my eyes from the screen even as at times I was screaming silently on the inside. Justine (Kirsten Dunst) and Michael (Alexander Skarsgard) are celebrating their marriage at a sumptuous party in the home of her sister (Charlotte Gainsbourg) and brother-in-law (Keifer Sutherland). Family secrets and personal depression come into play during the festive yet somber occasion. Meanwhile, the planet, Melancholia, is heading towards earth bringing with it the inevitable end of civilization. The performances are the real reason to see MELANCHOLIA with not a weak one in the bunch. Ms Dunst has never been better and shows a maturity untapped before now. Ms Gainsbourg and Mr Sutherland are impressive as the unhappy Hosts and John Hurt is terrific as the Patriarch. But the standout performance is given by Charlotte Rampling as the bitter mother of the Bride. She is ferocious in her brilliance. Her toast to the Happy Couple is worth the 135 minutes alone. It's not quite 'Art For Arts Sake" offensive like THE TREE OF LIFE was, but there were moments that I certainly rolled my eyes and sighed at director Lars Von Triers indulgence. If you are a true fan of Art Films, you will find much to appreciate. If you like your movies a bit more mainstream, this ain't the one for you.
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