Dancer in the Dark (2000)
Perhaps the best musicals are the saddest ones.
Presentation:
This may be the only musical I enjoyed, largely because it is nothing like a conventional musical. There are about 5 musical numbers from Icelandic artist Björk, whom composed and acted in her first film. Famous for residual mental trauma from the film, once you watch the film you will understand why. Björk’s performance is inspired, realistic, and you would never think she hadn’t acted before. Most importantly, her music is very interesting to listen to unlike typical jazz hand musicals. This is more like atmospheric electronic trip-hop, and I loved it. What’s really surprising is how everything works. Trier’s signature handheld style creates a realism, which contrasts with the surreal interjecting musical numbers. This doesn’t seem like it would make sense, but since Trier film’s are always so dark and gritty, the musical interludes become a very welcome respite from the bleak misery of the plot. This is a emotionally trigger film more than Breaking the Waves, despite not being as depraved.
Conclusion:
There’s a lot of cinema Trier explores in this nearly experimental film. Out of all people, no one would expect Trier to make a musical, and perhaps that’s why it works. The plot and competence of the characters may not be rock solid, but this format actually doesn’t require typical filmmaking logic. Trier manages to bring out the rawest performances from all his female leads, and this may be one of the greatest. Prepare your heart.
Recommendations
Serial killer humor.