2011 | Denmark /Sweden/France/Germany | Directed by Lars Von Trier
Logline: Two sisters struggle to deal with their immediate relationships as a once-hidden planet bears down on the earth prompting the end of the world.
Justine (Kirsten Dunst) is getting married to Michael (Alexander Skarsgard).
But Justine is not happy.
Michael is blissful, but naïve.
Justine’s sister Claire (Charlotte Gainsbourg) is exasperated.
Claire’s husband Jack (Keifer Sutherland) is angry.
Justine and Claire’s mother Gaby (Charlotte Rampling) is at the end of her tether.
Michael’s father Jack (Stellan Skarsgard) is boastful, but soon becomes bitter.
The big blue planet Melancholia looms from behind the sun.
The wedding collapses.
Justine is in a stupor.
Claire becomes paranoid.
Jack becomes excited.
Melancholia appears inviting, but the threat of annhilation soon overwhelms.
Jack insists science will prevail.
Justine’s dark mood leads her to strip herself of responsibility.
Claire’s desperation clings like a cold sweat.
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Destiny is held dear.
Melancholy engulfs happiness.
Resignation seems the softest option.
Justine, Claire, and her son Leo (Cameron Spur) join hands on the grassy knoll.
Melancholia looms so close now.
The protection of intimacy is such a fragile pursuit.
Surrender.
Melancholia is Lars Von Trier's other masterpiece, holding hands with Breaking the Waves.