The 19th Hole in Melancholia: A Symptom of Existential Dread
In Lars von Trier’s film Melancholia, the 19th hole serves as a metaphorical and thematic element that underscores the film's exploration of existential dread and the human condition.
The 19th hole is ambiguously left to the viewer's interpretation, much like the film’s deeper meanings. This element is deliberately designed to make the audience draw their own conclusions, much like the case of a film review by Mark Kermode.
Existential Dread and Normalcy
The 19th hole is a bar at the clubhouse, a place where golfers congregate after their rounds. In the context of Melancholia, this location takes on a symbolic role, reflecting mundane human preoccupations in the face of catastrophic events. Kiefer Sutherland’s character, John, embodies a certain arrogance and pride as he boasts about his golf course, insisting on the number of holes—18, the standard for a full golf course. This can be interpreted as a representation of the structured rational world that people cling to in the face of existential threats.
Justine’s Melancholia and Her Creation
John’s insistence on 18 holes can also be seen as a manifestation of his desire to control and maintain normalcy. However, this moment subtly highlights the contrast between mundane human preoccupations and the larger, uncontrollable forces of nature. John’s confidence and pride in his golf course become a stark juxtaposition to the impending apocalypse, emphasizing the futility of such concerns.
Justine, the disgruntled bride, is partially aware of her forces of hate, commenting that life is only on Earth. However, she may not be fully aware that her state of mind is causing the planet Melancholia to move towards Earth. The 19th hole, created by Justine's mind, symbolizes this phenomenon, as the flag appears twice in the film, reinforcing the idea that her emotions are shaping her reality.
John’s Golf Course and the 19th Hole
John, portrayed as a man of perfection, enjoys asking his friends and acquaintances about the number of holes in his golf course. Their responses of 18 he happily acknowledges, indicating his desire to outdo professional courses. The 19th hole, then, is a surprise, intended to keep potential foreign dignitaries on the golf course for longer, enabling additional exchanges or activities.
When guests say 19, an interesting answer is prepared for them, turning the 19th hole into a strategic asset. This deliberate ambiguity in the number of holes aligns with Justine’s subconscious creation of the 19th hole and the planet Melancholia. It is a testament to the film’s ability to blend real-world human behaviors with fantastical elements, further exploring the theme of existential dread.
Conclusion
Kiefer Sutherland’s portrayal of John is a nuanced performance, especially in his final lines where he asserts, “You better be happy. ... I’ve paid a huge amount of money for this marriage.” The pitch, tone, and inflection emphasize his desperation and insecurity, ultimately defeated by Justine’s supreme melancholia. The 19th hole, in this context, represents a microcosm of human irrationality and the search for control in the face of uncertainty.
The 19th hole in Melancholia is not just a physical space but a metaphor for the human struggle to find meaning and solace in the face of overwhelming existential anxiety. It is a testament to the film’s profound exploration of the human condition, where even the most mundane activities are imbued with deeper philosophical significance.