Without a doubt, the most controversial film to come out of this year’s Cannes Film Festival was Lars von Trier’s “The House That Jack Built.” The film, which simultaneously experienced multiple walkouts, bad reviews, and a standing ovation, is seen as one of von Trier’s most challenging films to date. And if you’re familiar with the director’s previous works, that’s saying something.
READ MORE: Lars Von Trier’s ‘The House That Jack Built’ Is Repulsive, Toxic Trash [Cannes Review]
Now, over six months after the film’s premiere, ‘Jack’ is finally hitting theaters, albeit not the way you might expect. IFC Films is starting the holiday season off with the uncut “director’s” version of the film, which apparently is the same cut of the film that was shown to a disgusted audience in France. For one night only, fans of von Trier will get a chance to see exactly what the Cannes audience experienced. That is, if you’re in one of the select cities.
A couple weeks later, a larger, nationwide rollout will happen with an edited down “R-rated cut” of the serial killer film. This is a new version that looks to be a tamer than the one that caused all the walkouts and horrible reviews in Cannes. That version of the film will also see a VOD release, alongside the director’s cut on December 14th. So, depending on your tastes, you can choose between two flavors of “The House That Jack Built.”
“The House That Jack Built” stars Matt Dillon as the titular murderer. The film is set in the 1970s and follows Jack through the five murders that define his development as a serial killer. According to the official synopsis: “He views each murder as an artwork in itself, even though his dysfunction gives him problems in the outside world. Despite the fact that the final and inevitable police intervention is drawing ever near (which both provokes and puts pressure on Jack) he is – contrary to all logic – set on taking greater and greater chances.”
Starring alongside Matt Dillon are Uma Thurman, Siobhan Fallon Hogan, Sofie Gråbøl, and Riley Keough, all playing Jack’s victims, as well as Bruno Ganz.
For those willing to see this, brace yourselves. You were warned.
“The House That Jack Built” Director’s Cut hits theaters for one night only (locations and ticket info here) on November 28th and the R-rated version hits December 14th. Both versions will be available for purchase on VOD on December 14th.
Here are the new teaser and trailer: