The House That Jack Built (2018)

The House That Jack Built (2018) is a dark, provocative crime drama that follows Jack, a highly intelligent serial killer, across twelve years as he commits a series of murders he insists are works of art. Told largely from Jack’s point of view, the film blends grisly, escalating violence with philosophical monologue and a recurring, unsettling conversation between Jack and an enigmatic figure called Verge — a grotesque, sophistic foil who draws out Jack’s self-justifications, obsessions and wounded vanity. Viewers can expect an uncompromising, often disturbing experience: graphic depictions of murder and a bleak, ironic sense of humor sit alongside extended, provocative reflections on creation, morality and the nature of evil. The pacing alternates methodical, detail-heavy sequences of crime with surreal, theatrical exchanges that foreground Jack’s inner voice and artistic delusions. As the story progresses and the police close in, Jack takes increasingly risky steps to realize what he believes will be his ultimate “artwork.” This is a challenging, polarizing film intended to unsettle and provoke thought rather than comfort. Audiences should be prepared for intense imagery, morally ambiguous narration, and a mix of philosophical provocation and dark comedy that asks viewers to confront how aesthetics, cruelty and self-deception can intertwine.

Actors: Matt Dillon, Bruno Ganz, Uma Thurman

Director: Lars von Trier

Runtime: 152 min

Genres: Crime, Drama, Horror

6.5 /10 42 /100 6.8 /10 5.8 /10