Writer/director Roger Michell takes Du Maurier’s story and gives it a great feminist update in which Rachel has more of a stake and is more than just the object of derision and later, desire. Michell also intensifies the mystery aspects of the story making for a more interesting dynamic.
Great performances, particularly from Weisz (who is always great) and Claflin (proving to be a solid talent), beautiful cinematography and overall, an excellent drama.
I have a few issues with it - namely the motivation behind one of the central moments in the 3rd act and a too-long action sequence - but otherwise, it's a total lovefest.
At one point, I was so joyously happy, I even got a little teary-eyed.
I’ve liked, though not always enjoyed. Lars von Trier’s offerings over the past few years but for some reason, likely the combination of length and expectation, Melancholia escaped me. With his new film due for festival runs this winter, the time seemed ripe to catch up with his 2011 offering. Why did I wait so long?
Undeniably beautiful, Melancholia is also my favourite of von Trier’s works. It’s his exploration of a woman suffering through depression on her wedding day…
