When it comes to Lars von Trier‘s The Nymphomaniac, the only casting that anyone has focused on is that of the female lead, which will require a brave actress to play… well, a nymphomaniac. It’s actually kind of odd that we haven’t considered who else might be on board, since von Trier has managed to get many, many great actors for his films — and even the graphic material that we’ll be seeing shouldn’t discourage some prestigious names from signing on.

One of those great actors may be frequent collaborator, Stellan Skarsgård, who told E! that the director contacted him, saying, “Stellan, my next film will be a porno film, and I want you to play the lead in it.” Those hoping for some nudity from the 60-year-old (read: everybody) will be disappointed, as von Trier told him that he “will not get to f–k.”

Even though I’m sure that not being allowed to engage in coitus onscreen will be a problem, I could absolutely see him agreeing to star. Not only does his history with the director give him a certain sense of closeness, but the opportunity to play the lead in one of his films is enough of a big deal. I’m already anticipating this project, but knowing that Skarsgård could have a prominent role only helps matters.

And, when talking to The Independent, Lars von Trier shared some information on how he’s preparing to write the screenplay. As he put it, “I am talking to all the girls from when I was young who were screwing around like hell.” Calling the process “so much fun,” he says that hearing these girls “talk for three hours” has led to a “fantastic time researching.” von Trier feels that it may not be “a good sign,” but he’s “really excited by this project.” There have also been discussions with doctors and psychologists, which should lend a certain psychological edge to the proceedings.

In a typical fashion, he also referred to it in a slightly self-deprecating manner; the director hopes for it to be “a very messy film” with “a lot of different diversions and strange ideas and little parts that have nothing to do with the storyline.” That aspect is apparently inspired by some books he’s been reading as of late, including Buddenbrooks by Thomas Mann and In Search of Lost Time by Marcel Proust. The latter’s influence comes from this being “a Proustian sex film,” with there being “sex and then [...] lot of talking.”

One of the things that von Trier excels at is his dialogue, which is often laced with a scathing critique or wit — sometimes both at once. Many will flock to see this out of a lurid curiosity for what he’s doing with the subject matter, but people like myself (excuse me while I climb my high horse) are probably looking forward to the actual filmmaking.

The Nymphomaniac is expected to release in 2013.

Are you looking forward to The Nymphomaniac? How do you think Skarsgård would fit into it? Do von Trier’s comments make you more interested?

Source: ThePlaylist