For those of you who are utterly confused by this film, the solution is quite easy.
Justine is a manic depressive and every scene in this movie revolves around her illness. Her mother and father have obviously known and tried to cope with it for some considerable time. From their behaviour, they have totally given up and pretend that her wedding will somehow 'cure' her. It doesn't, of course, and they turn their back on her.
Her fiance also knows but is in complete denial. When the wedding fails to 'cure' her, he deserts her immediately after the ceremony.
The only person that supports Justine as best she can, is her sister Claire.
When Justine goes to live with Claire and her family, the planet Melancholia comes into their lives. The impending doom symbolises Justine's effect on the family. As the planet passes Earth, it appears everything is going to be alright. But, just like manic depressiveness, it turns around and returns with a vengeance!
Even the, seemingly inexplicable car scene at the beginning of the film, represents Justine's difficulty to attend her own wedding because of her debilitating illness.
All in all, not a bad film, if a bit over-long.
Justine is a manic depressive and every scene in this movie revolves around her illness. Her mother and father have obviously known and tried to cope with it for some considerable time. From their behaviour, they have totally given up and pretend that her wedding will somehow 'cure' her. It doesn't, of course, and they turn their back on her.
Her fiance also knows but is in complete denial. When the wedding fails to 'cure' her, he deserts her immediately after the ceremony.
The only person that supports Justine as best she can, is her sister Claire.
When Justine goes to live with Claire and her family, the planet Melancholia comes into their lives. The impending doom symbolises Justine's effect on the family. As the planet passes Earth, it appears everything is going to be alright. But, just like manic depressiveness, it turns around and returns with a vengeance!
Even the, seemingly inexplicable car scene at the beginning of the film, represents Justine's difficulty to attend her own wedding because of her debilitating illness.
All in all, not a bad film, if a bit over-long.
