Danish director Lars von Trier has been a polarizing figure for years. Many if not all of his films have caused divisiveness. And some have pushed the boundaries of mainstream and what some would call graphic sexual pornography. Either way, the film that the majority call his most mainstream film, MELANCOLIA (2011), became a critical darling and won many awards.

It’s the wedding day of Justine (Kirsten Dunst) and Michael (Alexander Skarsgård). Justine’s brother-in-law John (Kiefer Sutherland) and sister Claire (Charlotte Gainsbourg) are hosting the wedding at their magnificent mansion. As secrets of family and friends become exposed, a news report of a giant planetoid, Melancholia, hurdling towards a fly by of Earth is broadcast.

The film stars Kirsten Dunst in an award winning performance where she received the award for Best Actress at Cannes (which many proclaim as the greatest award of them all for a lead actress). With its splendid imagery, the film was once again shot by long time collaborator cinematographer Manuel Alberto Claro. Dark Discussions takes a look at this unique and acclaimed film.