About Breaking the Waves

Directed by Lars von Trier, "Breaking the Waves" is a powerful drama that tells the story of a deeply religious woman, Bess McNeill, living in a remote Scottish community, who makes a shocking sacrifice in the name of love. After her beloved husband, Jan, becomes paralyzed after an offshore oil rig accident, Bess believes that she can save him if she offers herself to other men.

Making / Production

"Breaking the Waves" was conceived and directed by Lars von Trier, and was the first film of his "Golden Heart" trilogy. It was produced by Peter Aalbæk Jensen and the script was written by Lars von Trier and David Pirie.

Actors

• Emily Watson as Bess McNeill - This was Watson's film debut, and she gives a mesmerizing performance as the innocent, yet emotionally troubled Bess.
• Stellan Skarsgård as Jan Nyman - Skarsgård convincingly plays Jan, Bess's devoted yet tormented husband.
• Katrin Cartlidge as Dodo McNeill - As Bess's more worldly sister-in-law, Cartlidge provides a stark contrast to Watson's Bess.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• "Breaking the Waves" was the first film in Lars von Trier's "Golden Heart" trilogy, followed by "The Idiots" and "Dancer in the Dark".
• Despite its strong sexual content, the film contains no actual sex scenes.
• Emily Watson received an Oscar nomination for her performance, even though this was her first film role.

Awards

The film was a critical success, and it won numerous awards, including the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival. Emily Watson was even nominated for an Academy Award for her powerful performance.

Quotes

• "I love him, and he loves me. So why don't you leave us alone!" - Bess McNeill
• "I don't make love with you because I want a man. I make love with you because I love you!" - Jan

Music, Soundtrack

• David Bowie's classic song, "Life on Mars?" is used prominently in the film.
• The song "Breaking the Waves" by St. Vincent was inspired by and named after the film.