neumu [ cinematronic ]




	Open Hearts
	Susanne Bier Mads Mikkelsen, Sonja Richter, Nikolaj Lie Kaas, Paprika Steen 2002		A tragic accident tears two couples apart in "Open Hearts," a painful-to-bear but commendable, emotionally honest Danish drama from director Susanne Bier. Cecilie (Sonja Richter) and Joachim (Nikolaj Lie Kaas) are in love. Both in their 20s, they're planning a bright future together. Then, Joachim is hit by a car and hospitalized with a shattered spine. Paralyzed and embittered, Joachim spews cruelty at Cecilie to drive her away rather than have her spend her life nursing a cripple. Cecilie, seeking comfort, turns to Niels (Mads Mikkelsen), a gentle doctor at the hospital. Niels happens to be the loving husband of Marie (Paprika Steen) who drove the auto that struck Joachim. Burdened by guilt, Marie encourages Niels to offer solace to the pretty, needy Cecilie, little realizing what passions may be unleashed. "Open Hearts" adheres to the "Dogme 95" principles developed by an informal group of Danish filmmakers. According to Dogme technical guidelines, only available light, sound and props can be used when shooting a movie. As a result, there's a patina of realness here that's not undermined by swelling, Hollywood-style strings and mood lighting.