| The Five Obstructions | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Directed by | Lars von Trier Jørgen Leth |
| Written by | Lars von Trier Jørgen Leth |
| Based on | The Perfect Human by Jørgen Leth |
| Produced by | Carsten Holst |
| Starring | Lars von Trier Jørgen Leth Claus Nissen Daniel Hernandez Rodriguez Patrick Bauchau |
| Distributed by | Zentropa Real ApS Wajnbrosse Productions Koch-Lorber Films |
Release dates |
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Running time | 90 minutes |
| Country | Denmark |
| Languages | Danish English French Spanish |
The Five Obstructions is a 2003 Danish documentary film directed by Lars von Trier and Jørgen Leth. The film is conceived as a documentary, but incorporates lengthy sections of experimental films produced by the filmmakers.[1] The premise is that von Trier has created a challenge for his friend and mentor, Jørgen Leth, another renowned filmmaker.[2] Lars von Trier's favorite film is Leth's The Perfect Human, and von Trier gives Leth the task of remaking The Perfect Human five times, each time with a different "obstruction" (or obstacle) imposed by von Trier.[3]
It has been said that "Both this film and Dogville show a more mature von Trier, one who is more aware of and accountable to the full implications of the torture, suffering and victimization he has employed in his films, especially in exploring how easily those who victimize others in the name of righteousness become victims [of] their own self-righteousness."[4]
- ^ Verrone, William (23 May 2013). Adaptation and the Avant-Garde.Alternative Perspectives on Adaptation Theory and Practice. Bloomsbury Academic. ISBN 9781623562885. Retrieved 6 April 2020.
- ^ Collin, Robbie (9 May 2019). "Destination Wedding review: Keanu and Winona's romcom chemistry lesson doesn't quite ring true". The Telegraph. Retrieved 6 April 2020.
- ^ A. O. Scott (26 May 2004). "The Five Obstructions (2003)| Movie Review; A Cinematic Duel of Wits For Two Danish Directors". The New York Times. Retrieved 15 June 2015.
- ^ "Screening Log – 5/31–6/06, 2004". Also Like Life. 6 June 2004. Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 14 June 2015.