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Review

Danish director von Trier could very well be considered a mad-scientist of the film industry as he provokes audiences with yet another experimental project. Von Trier combines the elements of narrative novella, stage dramatics and cinematic expression to indulge the audience in a rare entertainment that can easily be described as a book, play and movie all in one. Kidman plays Grace, a mysterious woman who suddenly finds her way into the very tiny, seemingly friendly town of Dogville one night when she is on the run from gangsters. While attempting to remain inconspicuous, Grace ends up meeting Tom Edison (Bettany), the man who will convince the residents of Dogville to allow her to remain hidden provided she work for everyone accepting no salary. What evolves over the course of nine chapters (narrated by Hurt) becomes quite shocking at times. Grace, a vulnerable and clearly damaged woman, becomes a slaving prostitute to this town that once seemed so innocent and quaint. She will have to go to irreversible measures to not only escape, but to bring justice to those that betrayed her. Like most of von Trier’s works, Dogville runs quite long, but each moment is so detailed and rich it doesn’t even feel like time is passing. The characters, although easy to despise, are all captured so beautifully by an impressive cast. An innovative and daring feature.

 -- Chris Lombardi