Melancholia (2012)

Cinematography by Manuel Alberto Claro

Directed by Lars von Trier

Lars von Trier is another prime example of merging style and substance. Often choosing controversial and juicy topics, like with Nymphomaniac (2014), to depict beautifully and mercilessly, he lays bare the truths of life. But Melancholia was his truly visually stunning film of the 10’s, and it has been one of the few films that I have seen silence an audience for a good few minutes when the film ended.  The ending was spectacular, but I will not spoil the film for those interested, so better watch the equally impressive opening sequence (accompanied by Richard Wagner). The prolific Chilean director of photography, Manuel Alberto Claro does a lot of Scandinavian films, but is best known for his work on both Melancholia and Nymphomaniac.