Dogville

The other day I picked up the newest Nicole Kidman film to be released on DVD. I had heard only a slight buzz about this movie among other art film fans. But, I had yet to see it. Dogville is such an interesting movie. I really enjoyed it. Despite the fact it is 3 hours long, I don't have one complaint about the length. That is slightly surprising due mostly to the fact that I am a passionate hour and a half movie advocate.

The story of Grace and Tom Edison is told in nine chapters and a prologue. Those are the first words from the narrator. Then, the camera moves in from above to a small town in Colorado during the Depression. Granted, you are picturing a REAL town. No, no, no. This story is told in the absolute minimalist. Instead of an actual town, the set takes place inside and there are lines drawn on the ground indicating who lives where and what streets are what. Occasionally, furniture is scattered through houses with no walls or doors. The actors have to mime opening and closing doors. Even the town dog, Moses, is just a chalk drawing on the ground.

Many critics have said Dogville is entirely anti-American, which I strongly disagree with. It's just a story of the human condition. Dogville is a town of just that, dogs. We learn about how cruel and arrogant we can become. And above all, we learn just how harshly we can judge ourselves before casting any blame on those around us.