Bleeder (1999)

Written and directed by Nicolas Winding Refn

Co-starring Kim Bodnia, Zlatko Buric and Rikke Louise Andersson

In this, his second film collaboration with Refn, we find Mads in the supporting role of ‘Lenny’ a video shop worker and typical geek, who harbours affection for a girl who occasionally comes by his shop. Shy, awkward and socially inept, we watch, as poor Lenny tries to find a way to convey his feelings. Although again, not a particularly lengthy role, in Mads’ expert hands it is, of course, a moving and, at times, a mildly amusing one.

In contrast, ‘mildly amusing’ is certainly not a word that can be used to describe the film as a whole. Bleeder is a violent and disturbingly realistic portrait of a man’s (Bodnia) descent into his own living hell, which is brought about by social and domestic misfortune and triggers a tragic and devastating chain of events which has an impact on the lives of all those around him.

This is no easy film to watch, it pulls plenty of powerful punches and makes no apologies for its realism. It is an intelligent, thought provoking and somewhat distressing look at emotional breakdown and its tragic consequences.


Nominated for

2000 Bodil Awards

Best Film – Nicolas Winding Refn

Best Supporting actress - Rikke Louise Andersson

by Jacqui

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