When the credits for this picture rolled, I was disappointed and assumed I wouldn't like the film because it said that it was a 'Dogme 95' movie. Dogme 95 is an odd film movement begun in Denmark which strives to make films super-realistic. I don't mind that at all, but the Dogme directors actually have a manifesto with some very odd MUSTS--musts which sometimes make the film a bit difficult to watch. For example, the films are ONLY shot with hand-held cameras--and often this results in a jerky picture. And, props are not allowed! There are many more MUSTS and while some of the Dogme pictures are great (such as "Festen"), I feel that sometimes these musts get in the way of making a good film. So, I was prepared to hate this film. Odd, then, that I turned out to enjoy it--and it improved as the film progresses.
When the film begins, Katrine is at a mental hospital visiting her sister, Mette. It seems that when Mette's boyfriend, Tomsen, ran off to Africa two years ago, she's been so depressed that she's been in this hospital. Katrine is there to tell Mette that she is about to marry a nice guy, Jonas, but Katrine has a HUGE problem telling people important news that might upset them. So, she ends up leaving without telling her. This pattern continues throughout the film, as when Tomsen shows up unexpectedly just before the wedding, Katrine STILL doesn't tell her sister about the wedding or Tomsen's return! What's next? Well, I don't want to spoil it, but the film does get pretty kooky (being a bit like the movie "The Hangover") and there are lots of surprises.
The best thing about this film is that it is difficult to predict. Additionally, the director did a great job sticking within the Dogme framework BUT still being unique and clever. For example, while there is music in the film (rare for the genre considering the strong constraints of the movement), to get around the rules, the singers appear on the screen along with Mette--and you assume she's imagining them. Overall, a unique and fun film--and one that makes me think twice about the Dogme films.
