The Element of Crime
1984, DA. Directed by Lars von Trier.
Fisher, an ex-detective, decides to take one final case when a mysterious serial killer claims the lives of several young girls. Fisher, unable to find the culprit, turns to Osbourne, a writer who was once respected for his contributions to the field of criminology. Fisher begins to use Osbourne's technique, which involves empathizing with serial killers; however, as the detective becomes increasingly engrossed in this method, things take a disturbing turn.
- Runtime
- 1h 44m
- Post-credits
- None listed
- Language
- DA
- Rated
- NR
Start now and it ends at ….
Popcorn Flick
Fun if you don’t overthink it.
6.4/10 from 241 TMDB viewer ratings.
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Where to watch The Element of Crime
The Element of Crime is streaming on MUBI in India.
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MUBI
MUBI Amazon ChannelAvailability in India as of 13 November 2026. Streaming data by JustWatch.
Cast & crew
- Lars von TrierDirector
- Michael ElphickFisher
- Esmond KnightOsborne
- Me Me LaiKim
- Jerold WellsKramer
- Ahmed El ShenawiTherapist
- Astrid Henning-JensenHouse Keeper
- Janos HerskoCoroner
- Stig LarssonCoroner's Assistant
- Harry HarperPortier 1
- Roman MoszkowiczPortier 2
- Lars von TrierSchmuck of Ages
- Frederik CasbyWhite Policeman
Details
- Released
- 14 May 1984
- Original title
- Forbrydelsens element
- Country
- Denmark
- Written by
- Lars von Trier, Niels Vørsel
Check ratings elsewhere
News & fan talk
After The Element of Crime
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The Element of Crime: quick answers
What comes after The Element of Crime?
Next in the series: Epidemic (1987) and Europa (1991).
Is The Element of Crime worth watching?
Our verdict is Popcorn Flick: Fun if you don’t overthink it. It scores 6.4/10 from 241 TMDB viewer ratings.
How long is The Element of Crime?
The Element of Crime runs 104 minutes (1h 44m).
Does The Element of Crime have a post-credits scene?
None is listed for The Element of Crime. Viewers tag these on TMDB, so a brand-new film may not be tagged yet.
The Element of Crime parents guide: is it suitable for kids?
The Element of Crime is rated NR in India. Check the rating guidance before watching with young children.
Which OTT platform is The Element of Crime on?
The Element of Crime is streaming on MUBI in India. (Checked 13 November 2026.)
What movies are like The Element of Crime?
If you liked The Element of Crime, try My Son, My Son, What Have Ye Done, Righteous Kill, Blood Work.
Who directed The Element of Crime?
The Element of Crime (1984) was directed by Lars von Trier and stars Michael Elphick, Esmond Knight, Me Me Lai.