The House That Jack Built (2018)
One can only hope to never find serial killers funny.
Presentation:
As Trier’s career nears its end, he provides a sarcastic reflection on his work comparing it to that of serial killer. The dark humor can be both self-deprecating and offensively taboo, though in 2026 I get the feeling people will be too jaded to be provoked. This is tonally more of a dark comedy than it is his usual nihilist drama, though it does get philosophical at times. But it is far too long at 2 and a half hours and becomes indulgent preaching. As he correctly points out, his intellectual masturbation can be bullshit and insufferable at times and few should care about his anti-human propaganda. I think the runtime ruins an otherwise short joke, taking the material too seriously to a critical fault.
Analysis:
The serial killer obsessed with the art of killing is comparable to Lars von Trier. This is essentially an admission that his borderline degenerate body of work against humanity is no different than that of a serial killer. The self-awareness and deprecation is even charming at times, as he clearly criticizes himself in order to cover his bases from film critics. Toward the trial in hell, it is of note that the killer ends up failing the climb and falling into hell, condemning himself and his work.
Conclusion:
This is tricky to rate, because there are moments that can actually be funny. The irony of it all is you’re hoping you won’t be amused and hoping to hate this film, because if not it may reveal something darker about yourself you don’t want to admit. Hopefully this isn’t your type of humor, but if you laugh at some parts you probably won’t be alone. Provoking or thought provoking? Most likely the former.
Recommendations
One can only hope to never find serial killers funny.