The Five Obstructions

By: Adam Bekhet

The Five Obstructions directed by Lars Von Trier is an experimental documentary made following the cinematic movement Dogme 95.

The film begins with Von Trier giving his mentor Leth, who is also another respected filmmaker a challenge. Von Trier wants Leth to remake The Perfect Human five times. The Perfect Human is Leth’s favorite movie. Leth also happens to be 19 years his senior. Every time that Leth shoots the film, there is a new obstruction. Hence the title of this film In his first task he must remake the film in Cuba, only using twelve shots. Although this seems impossible, Von Trier is very happy with the scenes when he comes back. His second task is to film the film in the worst place in the world without showing this place. His third task is a punishment for failing his last task. He is required to go back and film at his first location, or make it any way he chooses. Leth then finds help to make an animated version of his film, due to the fact that the fourth task was to make it as a cartoon. His last task is to narrate a version that Von Trier has already made, and take credit for it.

A film such as this one may not have the largest audience. However, the film was still received well. This film reminds me of nothing else. It has a unique way of grabbing the attention of the audience. I respect this film for it’s rawness and uncut nature.