I honestly don’t know why this film is so hated and subsequently obscure. Yeah, the premise would be a bit desperate and creepy if it were carried out reality but, ultimately, it all feels pretty lighthearted and farcical. The entire world Peter inhabits is like a hyperreal take on suburban weirdness that, at times, reminds me a bit of “The Adventures of Pete and Pete.” I also find his occasionally witty narration to make Peter a lovable loser, at the…

In a word: harrowing. I don’t wish to repeat what has already been said by previous reviewers because I agree with most of their points. The most salient point is how split most people feel between love and hatred for this film, which has to be some kind of accomplishment. The charge that it is all meaningless and pure emotional manipulation on Von Trier’s part, I think, is wrong. There’s a profound sadness that builds in this film that I…