miriamgaynor

When it comes to constructing taut, gripping and disturbing revenge thrillers it is hard to rival the New-wave Korean directors. This film presents a brutal and uncompromising story of vengeance. It is similar to Old Boy, in that it presents us with a morally ambivalent protagonist - a man more sinned against than sinning, with whom we cannot help but sympathize despite the monstrous acts he commits in the name of retribution. Choi Min-Sik (in another masterful performance) plays the villain as such a vile and odious character that we want to see him punished, but this film asks how far would/should a person go to avenge the one they love. As the line between good and evil becomes blurred we see how hatred and rage can taint even the pure at heart, and the bittersweet ending is one which stayed with me long after the credits. This is a stunning and gut-wrenching film which is not for the faint of heart but if you're a fan of Korean cinema or revenge films this one is right up there with Park Chan Wook's vengeance trilogy and is highly recommended.

Initially I found the 'play' set-up gimmicky and disconcerting, however I soon forgot all about the framing and became fixated on the picture itself. There are no special effects nor camera tricks and make-up is kept to a bare minimum, which allows us to focus purely on the story and the quality of the acting; both of which are exemplary. Nicole Kidman is amazing as usual bringing a wonderful vulnerability and frailty to her character which conceals an underlying ruthlessness and brutality. Ample support comes from co-stars Betthany and Chloe Sevigny and in truth the whole cast is frighteningly convincing.

The story is simple, a young woman who it appears is on the run from the mob seeks refuge in a small town known as Dogville. The residents who are initially wary of her soon warm to her and welcome her into their midst. This however, comes with a price she must do small favours in return for refuge. Inevitably greed, desire and mistrust take over the residents which corrupts them and has devastating consequences for all involved.

The dramatic shift in the mentality of the townspeople is so well handled and expertly crafted by Von Trier, that it makes the emotional payoff which one receives at the end of this film even greater. It is utterly compelling and has universal themes. Ultimately, this is a film which may serve as a cautionary tale for all self-proclaimed 'civilised' societies and as a treatise upon karmic retribution.