Nicolas Winding Refn, a director known for his distinctive style and uncompromising vision, has once again captivated audiences with his latest film, Her Private Hell. Debuting at the Cannes film festival after a decade away from theatrical features, the film has sparked a mix of reactions, much like its director’s previous works. Refn’s unique approach to filmmaking, characterized by ethereal scores and a focus on the aestheticization of rage continues to set him apart in the industry.
The director’s recent interviews have provided a glimpse into his creative process and the world of Her Private Hell. In a conversation that began with an apology for starting lunch, Refn shared insights into his on-set habits and the importance of keeping his crew happy. From cakes to ice cream breaks Refn’s sets are a far cry from the bloody steaks one might expect from his films. “Every day is like a birthday,” he quipped, highlighting his approach to maintaining a positive and productive environment.
Balancing Iconography and Subversion
Refn’s work has always existed on two planes: appreciating and appropriating iconography while also subverting it. In Her Private Hell this balance is exemplified by the character of the Leather Man. Refn drew inspiration from the glam rock era, creating a character that is both a glam icon and a killing machine. “He was a father trapped in the underworld searching for his daughter,” Refn explained, highlighting the character’s emotional depth and complexity.
The film’s narrative structure, which oscillates between the perspectives of Sophie and Charles was a deliberate choice by Refn and co-writer Esti Giordani. The script’s elusive nature and shifting points of view were developed in steps, with Refn and Giordani working to find a rhythmic inclination that would connect the two parallel stories. “They were not single cells, but they were, in a way, one cell,” Refn explained, describing the process of combining the narratives into a cohesive whole.
Evolving Endings and Cinematic Language
Refn’s approach to filmmaking is not just about storytelling; it’s also about the language of cinema. In Her Private Hell he employs techniques such as zooms and closeups to create a unique visual experience. “I love the zoom,” Refn said, explaining that it combines the dynamism of a moving shot with the impact of a static one. The film’s focus on pantomime and the actors’ performances also influenced Refn’s use of closeups, allowing the audience to fully appreciate the beauty and emotion of the characters.
The film’s violence is another aspect that sets it apart. Refn’s approach to violence is not just about shock value; it’s about combining sex and violence to create a seductive and enjoyable experience. “I don’t make documentaries,” Refn said, explaining that he is drawn to the fantasy and escapism of genre movies. “I like the naivety and the simplistic components of what the fantasy can offer you: escapism.”
Behind the Scenes of Her Private Hell
The world of Her Private Hell is an artificial one, filled with dolls and fetishes. Refn’s fascination with playing with dolls is evident in the film’s design, from the Leather Man‘s uniform to the candy-floss universe. “Everyone was representative of a certain fetish,” Refn explained, describing the characters as dolls that he could mold and move. The film’s end credits feature portraits of the actors, taken during production, which further emphasize this theme.
Refn’s love for his actors is evident in the film, from the tenderness he shows them to the violence they experience. The fight scene between Sophie and Havana is a prime example of this, with Refn treating the characters’ emotions with the same care and attention as their physical actions. “You have to look at the action sequence in variations,” Refn said, explaining that the film’s violence is not just about the same DNA, but about eroticizing violence in different ways.
As Her Private Hell prepares for its theatrical release, it’s clear that Refn’s unique vision and approach to filmmaking continue to captivate audiences. From his on-set habits to his use of cinematic language, Refn’s work is a testament to his creativity and passion for the art of filmmaking.
