Nicolas Winding Refn Breaks Down in Tears as He Recalls Dying for 25 Minutes Due to a ‘Leaking Heart’ and Coming Back to Life: ‘How Many People Get a Second Chance?’
Nicolas Winding Refn emotionally recounted his near-death experience during a Cannes press conference for his film 'Her Private Hell.' He revealed that he died for 25 minutes due to a leaking heart, which was discovered by accident. This experience gave him a renewed perspective on life and filmmaking, leading to his return to the industry after a decade-long hiatus.
- ▪Nicolas Winding Refn broke down in tears while discussing his near-death experience.
- ▪He died for 25 minutes due to a leaking heart, which was discovered unexpectedly.
- ▪Refn expressed gratitude for receiving a second chance at life and filmmaking.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Home Film Festivals May 19, 2026 4:21am PT Nicolas Winding Refn Breaks Down in Tears as He Recalls Dying for 25 Minutes Due to a ‘Leaking Heart’ and Coming Back to Life: ‘How Many People Get a Second Chance?’ By Ellise Shafer Plus Icon Ellise Shafer Latest Nicolas Winding Refn Breaks Down in Tears as He Recalls Dying for 25 Minutes Due to a ‘Leaking Heart’ and Coming Back to Life: ‘How Many People Get a Second Chance?’ 10 minutes ago Sebastian Stan Slams Donald Trump and Says What’s Going on in America Is ‘Not a Laughing Matter’: ‘We’re in a Really Bad Place’ 1 hour ago Shirtless Charles Melton, Brutal Murders and Daddy Issues: Nicolas Winding Refn’s ‘Her Private Hell’ Slays Cannes Crowd With 7-Minute Ovation 13 hours ago See All Getty Images Danish auteur Nicolas Winding Refn broke down…
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