Breaking the Waves

1996, Drama, 2h 39m

59 Reviews 25,000+ Ratings

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critics consensus

Breaking the Waves offers a remarkable testament to writer-director Lars von Trier's insight and filmmaking skill -- and announces Emily Watson as a startling talent. Read critic reviews

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Breaking the Waves Photos

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Movie Info

In a small and religious coastal town, a simple, devoutly religious Scottish woman, Bess McNeill (Emily Watson), finds a partner in an oil rig worker from Norway, Jan Nyman (Stellan Skarsgard). However, the relationship grows strained when Nyman breaks his neck in a horrific work accident on the rig and becomes paralyzed. Unable to perform sexually and suffering mentally from the accident as well, Jan convinces Bess to have sex with other men, which she comes to believe is God's work.

Cast & Crew

Emily Watson
Bess McNeill
Stellan Skarsgård
Jan Nyman
Katrin Cartlidge
Dodo McNeill
Jean-Marc Barr
Terry
Adrian Rawlins
Dr. Richardson
Sandra Voe
Mother
Udo Kier
Sadistic Sailor
Mikkel Gaup
Pits
Roef Ragas
Pim
Phil McCall
Grandfather
Lars von Trier
Director
Peter Asmussen
Writer
Lars von Trier
Writer
David Pirie
Writer
Lars Jönsson
Executive Producer
Peter Aalbæk Jensen
Producer
Robby Müller
Cinematographer
Anders Refn
Film Editor
Joyce Nettles
Casting
Job Gosschalk
Casting
Karl Juliusson
Art Direction
Manon Rasmussen
Costume Designer
Vibeke Windeløv
Producer
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Critic Reviews for Breaking the Waves

All Critics (59) | Top Critics (15) | Fresh (50) | Rotten (9)

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