Lagerlout’s review published on Letterboxd:
I knew things weren't going to get better. They could only get much, much worse.
Although part two of Nymphomaniac isn't exactly a separate film, there is a certain shift. A much darker one, where things go from youthful abandon, an embracing of an overt sexuality to a desperation and a depression. Before Joe was celebrating her sexual appetites and not caring for the consequences, because there were none - not for her. Now she is still uncaring for consequences, but they are many and they are real. It should be perfectly acceptable for Joe to live the life she wishes, if it fulfils her desires, but the world does not view it that way and it will tell her so in many different guises.
Once again, I don't know how to describe my feelings towards this film. I know the acting is wonderful and the entire cast is brave, creative and exciting to see on screen. The composition of shots and the general aesthetic of the film is incredible. It creates such a mood and ambiance, it made me uneasy the entire time, which I think was the intention. The interactive nature of the screen was also impressive. The imposed numbers and letters, the different chapter headings were all brilliant. And even, dare I say, the humour? I was in a packed cinema and I don't know of the laughter was due to the nervous tension everyone was experiencing, but there was a fair amount of laughter throughout. Was that the intent, or were we desperate for some release?
The only part I truly cannot process is the ending. I just don't know how I feel about it. I feel angry and cross. I feel like it would always be that way and I should have seen it coming. I feel annoyed at Von Trier for doing that to us, but then I feel glad he did. I am so conflicted, I really need more time to understand my reaction towards it. I am so glad I have seen this film however. I was so apprehensive about what would happen, I'm glad we all made it through alive.
I think I'll go look for my soul tree now, and try to calm down.