Breaking the Waves

Synopsis

Breaking the Waves is a 1996 drama film directed by Lars von Trier, starring Emily Watson in her breakout role. The story follows Bess, a naive and deeply religious young woman living in a remote Scottish village, who makes extreme sacrifices for the man she loves. When her husband Jan becomes paralyzed in an accident, Bess believes that her self-destructive acts can heal him. The film explores themes of faith, sacrifice, and the power of love in the face of tragedy. Breaking the Waves is a visually striking and emotionally intense film that challenges viewers with its raw portrayal of human emotions and moral dilemmas.

Cast

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  Emily Watson

  Bess McNeill

• 

  Stellan Skarsgård

  Jan Nyman

• 

  Katrin Cartlidge

  Dodo McNeill

• 

  Jean-Marc Barr

  Terry

• 

  Adrian Rawlins

  Dr. Richardson

• Jonathan Hackett

  Priest

Reviews

Breaking the Waves has received critical acclaim for its bold storytelling and outstanding performances. Rotten Tomatoes gives it a score of 84%, describing it as a 'deeply affecting morality tale' that showcases Emily Watson's exceptional talent. IMDb users have rated the film 7.8/10, praising its emotional impact and unconventional narrative style. Metacritic awards Breaking the Waves with a score of 81/100, indicating universal acclaim from critics. The film has been lauded for its powerful themes, haunting cinematography, and the fearless performance delivered by Emily Watson. Critics have hailed Breaking the Waves as a daring and thought-provoking masterpiece that pushes the boundaries of traditional storytelling.