DVD review: Melancholia

Danish writer, director and producer Lars von Trier certainly hasn't built his reputation on straight-laced, formulaic movies.

He has always been one to look at life with different eyes and tell his cinematic stories through images more than words.

Melancholia is typical Von Trier.

He tells us the story of two sisters - Justine (Kirsten Dunst) and Claire (Charlotte Gainsbourg) - who have had a love-hate relationship.

With families coming together for Justine's wedding, relationships are going to be tested to the full.

What makes matters even more interesting is the threat posed by a mysterious new planet, which threatens to collide with the Earth.

Justine has never been too stable in her actions but the planet's ominous presence seems to affect her more than ever.

Her strange demeanour destroys what would have been a beautiful wedding in Claire's palatial country residence.

Her new husband - Michael (Alexander Skarsgard) - doesn't know what to make of her behaviour and, despite his best efforts, he can't get close to her.

Throw into the mix a dysfunctional extended family and oddness is the order of the day.

Melancholia (the name of the planet) is certainly an acquired taste with its moody imagery, unusual storyline and at times bizarre filming.

Melancholia

(M), Madman Entertainment

Rating: 2.5 / 5 stars