Antichrist

Released: 2009

Directed by: Lars von Trier

Starring: Williem Defoe, Charlotte Gainsbourg

Genre: Drama, Horror

Known for its infamous reputation, Lars von Trier's latest film, Antichrist, is a turgid attempt at an otherwise simple story.  It centers around a married couple who, during an explicit sex scene, lose their son to a terrible accident.  To cope with their loss (or rather, the mother's loss, the husband is completely lifeless), they then retreat to their isolated cabin in the woods - original, no?  Having been booed at Cannes, I was in complete disbelief when there was a round of applause after its Toronto International Film Festival screening. 

My description of Antichrist may seem harmless, but Trier's ego gets the best of it.  Having declared himself "the best director in the world," Trier is nothing more than a condescending prick.  While there is nothing worse than to childishly name-call, Antichrist is a represtentation of the director himself.  The film is visually stunning, but condescending, egotistical and even vapid.  As we hear the husband (played by Williem Defoe) "enlighten us" with his expertise in psychoanalyis, you can't help but wonder what Trier thinks of us. Take, for instance, this quote by Trier:

"I would like to invite you for a tiny glimpse behind the curtain. A glimpse into the dark world of my imagination: into the nature of my fears, into the nature of Antichrist."

If this doesn't say "portentious," I don't know what does.  Now while portentiousness exists all around us, there is only so much you can take.  Trier's psychological drama about sexuality, gender relations and the reciprocal power of fear and lust loses all effect when considering the director's self-importance.  It's a disappointment to say the least. 

I continue to wonder why people would applaud to a film like this - not only for it's character, but for its disrespect.  Audiences should have the liberty to think for themselves during a film, but Antichrist completely obliterates that notion.  Trier obviously has no respect for audiences, but total respect in himself.  Now while I'm more than certain that people have realized this, I feel as though the visuals have something to do with this aforementioned praise.  While true (the film was shot by Slumdog Millionaire cinematographer Anthony Dod Mantle), consider this notion: beauty is only skin-deep. 

SHARP OBJEX Rating: 1 out of 4

Antichrist Trailer