The King is Alive

This is the last of the four original films made under the auspices of Dogme 95. Levring sticks to the rules, but uniquely moves the action to Namibia where a small coach load of western tourists are stranded in a disused mining camp where they decide to stage a performance of King Lear to keep themselves occupied whilst waiting for deliverance. Inevitably, the sweltering days pass and tensions mount. The graininess of the digital camera perfectly captures the magnificent and threatening desert landscape, while other digital traits are exploited to startling effect. The ensemble cast features US indie stars and all give excellent performances.