The Element of Crime (1987)

  • NR
  • 04/01/1987 (US)
  • Crime, Drama, Science Fiction
  • 1h 44m

Overview

Fisher, an ex-detective, decides to take one final case when a mysterious serial killer claims the lives of several young girls. Fisher, unable to find the culprit, turns to Osbourne, a writer who was once respected for his contributions to the field of criminology. Fisher begins to use Osbourne's technique, which involves empathizing with serial killers; however, as the detective becomes increasingly engrossed in this method, things take a disturbing turn.

Lars von Trier

Director, Screenplay

Niels Vørsel

Screenplay

Cast

Michael Elphick's headshot

Michael Elphick

Fisher
Esmond Knight's headshot

Esmond Knight

Osborne
Me Me Lai's headshot

Me Me Lai

Kim
Jerold Wells's headshot

Jerold Wells

Kramer
Ahmed El Shenawi's headshot

Ahmed El Shenawi

Therapist
Astrid Henning-Jensen's headshot

Astrid Henning-Jensen

House Keeper
Janos Hersko's headshot

Janos Hersko

Coroner
Stig Larsson's headshot

Stig Larsson

Coroner's Assistant

Recommendations