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The impact of Dancer in the Dark can not easily (or fairly) be described with words. I do know, that the first viewing of the film was an emotional experience of sadness, joy, and heartbreak never to be forgotten for me. Here is a rare film that boldly and respectfully combines the musical genre with bleak melodrama. The results are a captivating and glorious cinematic achievement. Dancer In The Dark is one of the most emotionally moving films you'll ever experience. Shot in handheld digital video, Lars Von Trier uses multiple camera angles and quick cuts, which may frustrate some viewers. However, this film is more about emotional impact then it is about it's filmmaking (not that the filmmaking is poor, but rather the emotional impact is huge). The force of the film comes from the performance of Selma, played by the incomparable Bjork. Through this amazing performance, we see how much pain she manages to hide during the spectacular musical sequences, and how much joy she manages to hide during the pain of her situation. Already a brilliant musical artist, here Bjork displays a passionate and embracing versatility. A truly heartbreaking film that will pull you in emotionally to the point you feel involved in the movie. Like all Von Trier's work, this may not be for everyone and it can be a challenging if not difficult experience, but it rates among my personal favorites films ever made and I will continuously cherish the phenomenal and determined performance from Bjork, as well as her unforgettable 'Selma Songs'.
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