Controversial Filmmaker Lars von Trier: A History of Provocation
The world of cinema has long been acquainted with the provocative and often contentious style of Danish filmmaker Lars von Trier. As reported by Deadline, von Trier’s reputation for pushing boundaries has led to numerous controversies throughout his career, including allegations of sexual harassment and on-set misconduct.
According to Bryce Dallas Howard, who worked with von Trier on the 2005 film Manderlay, her introduction to the director was a memorable one. In an interview with The Times U.K., Howard recounted an anecdote in which von Trier began insulting her, stating that her father, renowned director Ron Howard, was a "terrible filmmaker". As Deadline reports, Howard responded by asking von Trier what he was trying to achieve, to which he replied that he wanted to see her "angry face".
The situation escalated when von Trier threw a glass of water in Howard’s face, prompting her to retaliate in kind. As Deadline notes, von Trier then got up and left the scene, leaving Howard to reflect on her first encounter with the director. Despite the unorthodox nature of the incident, Howard has spoken of her experience with von Trier in a matter-of-fact tone, stating that she was "sort of delighted by it".
Von Trier’s reputation as a problematic figure has been well-documented over the years. Deadline reports that he has faced criticism for making jokes about sympathizing with Nazis due to his German roots, as well as for his treatment of actresses and depiction of women on screen. The director’s 2005 film Manderlay, which also stars Willem Dafoe and Danny Glover, explores themes of slavery and oppression in rural Alabama during the 1930s.
As Deadline notes, Manderlay is a sequel to von Trier’s 2003 film Dogville, which starred Nicole Kidman. The film follows the story of a woman who becomes determined to free a group of enslaved people from a plantation that continues to operate under the conditions of slavery. Howard’s experience on the set of Manderlay was clearly shaped by von Trier’s unconventional approach to filmmaking.
In recent years, von Trier has faced health challenges, including a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease in 2022. According to Deadline, he was admitted to a care center in February 2025. Despite his personal struggles, von Trier’s legacy as a provocative and influential filmmaker continues to be felt. As Deadline reports, his work continues to spark important conversations about the boundaries of artistic expression and the responsibilities of filmmakers.
The recent comments made by Howard about her experience working with von Trier serve as a reminder of the complexities and challenges that can arise on film sets. As reported by Deadline, the incident highlights the often-blurred lines between artistic vision and personal behaviour, and raises important questions about the power dynamics at play in the film industry.
Deadline also states that von Trier is not a filmmaker who has shied away from difficult subjects, as his films often explore themes of social justice, morality and human nature. Love him or loathe him, Lars von Trier is a filmmaker who continues to leave an indelible mark on the world of cinema.
The impact of von Trier’s work and the controversies that surround him ensure that he remains a significant figure in the film industry, and one who will continue to spark debate and discussion. According to Deadline, von Trier’s film Manderlay remains a powerful exploration of the human condition.
