Lars von Trier is a Danish film director, screenwriter, and producer. He is best known for his films such as Breaking the Waves, Dancer in the Dark, Melancholia, and Dogville. He is considered to be one of the most influential filmmakers in the world. He has won numerous awards, including the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival in 2000 for Dancer in the Dark. He is also known for his controversial and provocative films.