Europa

About Europa

'Europa' is a 1991 film directed by Danish filmmaker Lars von Trier. It is the third installment in Trier's 'Europe' trilogy, following 'The Element of Crime' (1984) and 'Epidemic' (1987). Set in post-World War II Germany, the film uses an American protagonist, Leopold Kessler, who takes a job as a sleeping-car conductor for the Zentropa railway network, becomes embroiled in a subplot to blow up a train in a bid to weaken the occupying forces, but is likewise drawn into a doomed love affair with the railway magnate's daughter.

Making / Production

The movie was produced by Peter Aalbæk Jensen, and Bo Christensen. The screenplay was written by Niels Vørsel and Lars von Trier. The distinctive, visually stunning black-and-white cinematography was the work of Henning Bendtsen, Edward Klosinski, and Jean-Paul Meurisse.

Actors

• Jean-Marc Barr: He plays the role of Leopold Kessler, an American of German descent, who portrays his character's innocence and naiveté with finesse.
• Barbara Sukowa: Sukowa plays the role of Katharina Hartmann, the daughter of the Zentropa magnate. She excellently displays her character's complicated nature and tragic love story.
• Udo Kier: Kier plays the role of Max Hartmann, Katharina's uncle. He portrays a mysterious and manipulative character compellingly.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The movie was shot in English and German with a cast largely composed of native English-speakers, mirroring the film's setting in a divided Germany.
• 'Europa' marks the end of von Trier's stylistically experimental 'Europa' trilogy.

Awards

The film was awarded Prix de la Commission Supérieure Technique, Best Artistic Contribution, and the Prix du Jury at the 1991 Cannes Film Festival.

Quotes

• "You will now listen to my voice... My voice will help you and guide you still deeper into Europa..." - Narrator
• "Look, Leo, I'm not sure - perhaps we're only good at catastrophes." - Katharina Hartmann

Music, Soundtrack

• "Europa Theme" by Joachim Holbek
• "Krieg und Frieden" by Friedrich Holländer