A Czech factory worker and single mother, facing progressive blindness, finds escape and joy through her love of American musicals. Selma tirelessly works to save money for her son's operation, but a misunderstanding and false accusation lead to a devastating chain of events and a tragic turn of fate. The film explores themes of hope, despair, and the power of music in the face of adversity.
Does Dancer in the Dark have end credit scenes?
No!
Dancer in the Dark does not have end credit scenes. You can leave when the credits roll.
Explore the complete cast of Dancer in the Dark, including both lead and supporting actors. Learn who plays each character, discover their past roles and achievements, and find out what makes this ensemble cast stand out in the world of film and television.
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63
Metascore
8.6
User Score
70%
TOMATOMETER
91%
User Score
7.9 /10
IMDb Rating
79
%
User Score
Challenge your knowledge of Dancer in the Dark with this fun and interactive movie quiz. Test yourself on key plot points, iconic characters, hidden details, and memorable moments to see how well you really know the film.
What is the profession of Selma, the main character?
Factory worker
Singer
Teacher
Dancer
Show hint
Discover all the awards and nominations received by Dancer in the Dark, from Oscars to film festival honors. Learn how Dancer in the Dark and its cast and crew have been recognized by critics and the industry alike.
73rd Academy Awards 2001
Music (Original Song)
16th Film Independent Spirit Awards 2001
Best International Film
Read the complete plot summary of Dancer in the Dark, including all major events, twists, and the full ending explained in detail. Explore key characters, themes, hidden meanings, and everything you need to understand the story from beginning to end.
Selma is a young Czech mother residing in Washington state during the early 1960s. She is passionate about musicals; however, her vision is rapidly deteriorating, posing a significant threat to her employment at a local factory, and even jeopardizing her safety. At work, she assists her friend Cathy, who finds herself increasingly overwhelmed by Selma’s mounting workload, which includes the tedious task of pinning hairpins to unbent cardboard as a side job.
Living in a mobile trailer, Selma has an ungrateful 12-year-old son who often gets into trouble, and they reside on the property of a local sheriff alongside his cheerful wife. One fateful day, the sheriff confesses a somber secret to Selma, prompting her to reveal her own dark fate: her impending blindness. This exchange leads Selma’s life into a downward spiral, but she remains committed to safeguarding her friend’s secret.
As tensions rise, Cathy becomes increasingly exasperated by Selma’s choices. Yet, as the film reaches its intense climax, she recognizes that Selma’s way of handling life was indeed justified. In a poignant moment during the final scenes, Cathy reassures Selma that she made the right decisions despite the odds stacked against them.
This film is a unique blend of satire and tragedy—filled with experimental camera techniques—that explores the profound themes of friendship and maternal love. It’s a story best experienced in the company of others!
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