Notes: Five Obstructions (2004) by Jorgen Leth & Lars von Trier

In the movie “The Five Obstructions,” directed by Jorgen Leth and Lars von Trier, Jorgen Leth, a Danish filmmaker, is challenged by Lars von Trier to remake his own 1967 short documentary film “The Perfect Human” under specific obstructions. Here are the precise rules of each obstruction:

1. Obstruction: The film must be made in Cuba, and it must be shot in just 12 frames. Meanwhile, Jorgen has to answer the questions in the narration and he is not allowed to build a set. Jorgen copes with this obstruction by traveling to Cuba and exploring the poverty-stricken district. He uses a handheld camera to capture the essence of the place and creates a visually striking film using only 12 frames.
2. Obstruction: Jorgen must remake the film as a cartoon. Jorgen copes with this obstruction by collaborating with an animator and transforming the original film into an animated version. This obstruction allows for a different visual style and interpretation of the original concept.
3. Obstruction: The film must be made in the most crowded place in the world. Jorgen copes with this obstruction by shooting the film in the red-light district of Mumbai, India. The bustling and chaotic environment becomes an integral part of the film, reflecting the obstruction’s requirement.
4. Obstruction: Jorgen must make the film as a personal statement. Jorgen copes with this obstruction by incorporating personal elements into the film. He includes scenes from his childhood and explores his own emotions and experiences, making the film more introspective and subjective.
5. Obstruction: Jorgen must remake the film with the least possible means. Jorgen copes with this obstruction by remaking the film using a small digital camera and limited resources. He simplifies the production process and focuses on the core essence of the film, resulting in a minimalist interpretation.

Throughout the challenges, Jorgen copes with the obstructions by adapting his creative approach and embracing the limitations imposed by Lars von Trier. He navigates each obstruction with a mix of determination, creativity, and resourcefulness.

The effect on the movies Jørgen produces is that they become unique and divergent from the original film. Each obstruction introduces a new perspective, visual style, or personal element, resulting in a series of distinct reinterpretations of “The Perfect Human.” The obstructions force Jorgen to think outside the box and push the boundaries of his creativity, resulting in films that are influenced by the constraints imposed upon him.