Movies

Nicolas Winding Refn’s 10 Movies, Ranked Worst To Best

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News about Nicolas Winding Refn’s upcoming film, “Her Private Hell,” marks his return to feature-length filmmaking following almost a decade dedicated to creating TV series. His recent focus has been on extended narratives, beginning with the series “Too Old to Die Young.” Interestingly, he also established his own streaming platform, byNWR, offering viewers a chance to watch classic movies at no cost. One of his most recent TV productions, “Copenhagen Cowboy,” was among Netflix’s top new releases in 2022. The series is notable for its striking visual aesthetic and the outstanding performance of lead actress Angela Bundalovic.

At long last, Nicholas Winding Refn has returned to helm full-length films again. His latest feature was released in 2016, and we’re eagerly looking forward to updates about “Her Private Hell”. Known for his striking visuals that frequently show scenes bathed in neon lights, Refn also employs a 360-degree camera technique. Furthermore, there is a dreamlike quality to his storytelling as the films take us on a winding journey through multiple plot points and lengthy, introspective moments of little dialogue and sparse character interactions, eventually reaching a climax, which may be punctuated by scenes of intense violence.

10. Only God Forgives (2013)

A Thriller Starring Ryan Gosling & Kristin Scott Thomas

Among contemporary filmmakers, few excel at favoring visual aesthetics over plot development quite like Nicolas Winding Refn. His movies are marked by ominous, nearly monochromatic settings, interspersed with a kaleidoscope of neon accents. This creates an immersive environment where viewers can unwind and appreciate the vibrant neon spectacle he meticulously captures from every vantage point. However, this style of storytelling often leaves audiences struggling to empathize with the characters portrayed.

The movie titled “Only God Forgives” revolves around a character played by Ryan Gosling, who operates a Thai boxing club as a cover for his family’s illegal activities. Following an unsuccessful drug smuggling operation, his brother meets his end, prompting him to be dispatched by his mother to exact revenge. Regrettably, the film could have been more engaging had it included deeper character development. Instead, the characters appear to serve as a pretext for director Refn to orchestrate brutal encounters in stylish settings. The characters themselves lack the depth needed to truly engage with their narratives, and the film’s allure comes primarily from its intense, energetic, and ominous atmosphere.

9. The Neon Demon (2016)

Starring Elle Fanning

In my perspective, focusing too heavily on the visual aspects and style in a storytelling medium may hinder one’s ability to tackle heavy topics without appearing didactic or self-important. A film that delves into the fashion world’s fixation on appearances should avoid reinforcing this very issue. Regrettably, it seems that in his film, Nicolas Winding Refn may have lost sight of the message he intended to convey with The Neon Demon, a movie about a model who aspires to be a fashion icon in Los Angeles, whose beauty incites jealousy among other models.

In simpler terms, The characters intrude on her life and over time, cause her to unravel and ultimately consume her, both figuratively and literally. The movie’s vivid imagery objectifies every female character, yet avoids showing brutal violence outright. If not for the realistic portrayal of the ruthless nature of the beauty industry, the poor storytelling and cinematography would have made it even more pretentious. The Substance, a notable thriller film from 2024, shares the same issue with its focus, but at least offers a more accurate representation of working in such industries.

8. Fear X (2003)

Starring John Turturro & Deborah Kara Unger

As a devoted cinephile, I firmly believe that among the cherished TV series fans fiercely guard to preserve their distinctive allure, none is more deserving of this protection than the enigmatic “Twin Peaks.” Given the untimely departure of David Lynch, the show and its entirety should remain unaltered, for his extraordinary brand of surrealism is an irreplaceable masterpiece that simply cannot be replicated or reinvented. If a similar narrative must unfold, Nicolas Winding Refn would undeniably make a compelling choice to carry the torch.

Refn’s movie “Fear X,” made in the 21st Century and being his third directorial effort, stars John Turturro as an unconventional detective investigating the disappearance of his wife. The film employs dreamlike sequences intertwined with surveillance footage to challenge the distinction between reality and illusion. However, some viewers might find the gradual unfolding of events less satisfying. Despite the fact that “Fear X” may not have led to financial ruin for Refn and his production company, there could be more effective methods to narrate the story he desires to convey. Regardless, it’s essential viewing for enthusiasts of surreal crime dramas.

7. Valhalla Rising (2009)

Starring Mads Mikkelsen

In the 12th century, the movie “Valhalla Rising” explores Viking mythology through the lens of director Nicolas Winding Refn. The story follows a powerful warrior named One Eye on his journey after breaking free from his captors. Characteristic of Refn’s style, we find a protagonist grappling with moral ambiguity and his own identity, as well as scenes of intense violence that are almost overwhelming. Despite the film being set in an unfamiliar world for Refn, it is unmistakably his work.

In a more simplified version: Mads Mikkelsen’s portrayal of One Eye is the standout aspect of the film Valhalla Rising, but it can be criticized for its excessive use of symbolism. Although the symbols may initially appear subtle, they are overused to the point where the movie feels self-indulgent. However, the captivating cinematography and distinctive soundtracks keep viewers engaged, despite the fact that the storyline hardly progresses and instead tries to explore the connection between violence and morality without much development.

6. Bleeder (1999)

Starring Kim Bodnia & Mads Mikkelsen

Despite experiencing a decline in its third season and introducing new focus characters, “Killing Eve” remains an engaging series to watch until the very end primarily due to the exceptional performances. If the narrative hadn’t revolved so much around Konstantin, we wouldn’t have been treated to the captivating portrayal of Kim Bodnia as both a lovable uncle and ruthless assassin. His characters are often the emotional core of stories, even though they may be troubled individuals with questionable motives. This duality is particularly evident in “Bleeder.

In Nicolas Winding Refn’s second movie, Bodnia and Mads Mikkelsen portray separate characters grappling with personal issues. The first character is embroiled in a family dispute due to his mistreatment of his pregnant wife at the hands of his brother-in-law, while the second tries to establish a connection he desires with a waitress. Despite their contrasting circumstances, Refn, known for incorporating violence into his films, manages to create an equal sense of tension between the two narratives. Cinephiles are in for a treat as they savor Mikkelsen’s dialogue, given that he plays a film enthusiast in this movie.

5. Bronson (2008)

Starring Tom Hardy

In the biographical film about the infamous British criminal Charles Bronson, Tom Hardy delivers an outstanding career-topping performance. Director Nicolas Winding Refn allows Hardy full creative liberty to embody the title character, Bronson, and his portrayal of Bronson’s lack of compassion is so convincing it’s chilling. The movie’s atmosphere is dark, gritty, and reflective of Refn’s signature style, enhancing the narrative in a captivating way.

Bronson, whose real name is Michael Peterson, is a man who lacks emotions and is relentlessly committed to his life’s pursuit of causing violence and destruction wherever he can. His basic human compassion has seemingly vanished, replaced by an overpowering instinct for fighting and chaos. While Hardy delivers a mesmerizing performance that makes the movie worth watching, it sometimes feels purposeless, even intentionally so. This is because the film Bronson often depicts Bronson repeating his pattern of violent behavior in a way that leaves viewers unsure about the passage of time due to its editing techniques.

4. Pusher (1996)

Starring Kim Bodnia & Mads Mikkelsen

Nicolas Winding Refn’s first directorial film, titled “Pusher“, showcases a director with a unique vision and a penchant for visually captivating scenes that delve into the darker aspects of humanity. The movie’s recurring themes of moral ambiguity and violence born from circumstance are vividly portrayed in their most unfiltered form. The film, featuring Kim Bodnia and Mads Mikkelsen in pivotal roles, offers an objective viewpoint as it chronicles the descent into chaos and the escalation of situations among its characters.

In a gritty, documentary-style narrative, Kim Bodnia portrays a character whose life spirals out of control following a disastrous drug deal that lands him in debt to a ruthless drug lord. With no quick solution to pay off this substantial amount, he’s pushed to the brink and descends into chaotic and morally reprehensible actions. As viewers, we are drawn into the midst of his conversations but are also kept at arm’s length, creating an intense, anxiety-provoking experience that lingers long after the story ends.

3. Pusher III (2005)

Starring Zlatko Buric & Marinela Dekic

It’s hard to avoid comparisons between the Pusher films and Uncut Gems, given Adam Sandler’s outstanding performance in the latter, which stands as one of A24’s best movie roles. Likewise, the Safdie brothers’ movies and the Pusher series share a common theme: they both depict characters who rapidly deteriorate under the mounting pressure of increasingly daunting circumstances. However, the concluding installment in Refn’s crime trilogy breaks away from the tone set by its predecessors; it’s less tense and more subdued in comparison.

Milo, an influential drug peddler in his community, finds himself in a predicament due to a faulty shipment he can’t seem to offload. He wrestles with his desire to change his past, the impending 25th birthday of his daughter, and the absence of assistance from former allies. The movie is marked by excessive violence, but Refn’s directorial prowess is evident as he portrays the narrative with a somber tone, seeming to grieve for Milo’s predicament rather than merely observing turmoil.

2. Drive (2011)

Starring Ryan Gosling, Bryan Cranston, Albert Brooks, & Carey Mulligan

Among Nicolas Winding Refn’s films, it’s challenging to single out one as his ultimate masterpiece, but certainly, Drive is worthy of consideration. This film showcases Refn at the height of his skill, blending themes of morality and his fascination with neon-lit, sleek, and ominous settings to create an ideal canvas for Ryan Gosling’s portrayal of a relentless stunt driver who leaves a path of destruction in his wake.

In a dreamlike, wandering manner, the movie “Drive” immerses you in an atmospheric setting that prioritizes establishing the mood for the character’s journey over other elements. The narrative style leans heavily on aesthetics rather than substance, fitting perfectly with the enigmatic, almost empty core of our protagonist. Known only as Driver, he presents a tranquil exterior, but the movie soon plunges into a chilling whirlwind of violence when his life is disrupted. Despite the violent turns, the stunning visuals and their contrast to Driver’s actions create an illusion of safety, drawing viewers deep into the film’s enchanting atmosphere.

1. Pusher II (2004)

Starring Mads Mikkelsen & Leif Sylvester

Refn’s second movie in the “Pusher” series could be seen as his masterpiece, a platform for his talents as a director who excels at portraying the continuous struggle between humanity and morality within individuals. Unlike his later work like “Drive”, it lacks the refined finish or distinctive visual style. However, the gritty, guerrilla-style filmmaking of “Pusher II” is particularly fitting for this story, allowing Refn to delve deeper into themes that recur in his films without unnecessarily prettifying the narrative.

Mads Mikkelsen shines in notable films and series such as “Pusher II,” where he reprises his role from the earlier film, a character who emerges from prison seeking redemption. However, the movie portrays this transformation as an insurmountable struggle that his character is unable to conquer. Director Nicolas Winding Refn skillfully challenges moral boundaries by making viewers sympathize with a reprehensible character. The film “Pusher II” stands out as a remarkable cinematic accomplishment, using close-up camera work to make spectators feel uneasy around Mikkelsen’s intense on-screen presence.

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2025-04-29 00:43

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