Hitler charges silence Lars von Trier

Lars von Trier has taken a vow of silence after facing charges of breaking a French law against justification of war crimes (GETTY IMAGES)

Danish film director Lars von Trier has taken a vow of silence after facing charges of breaking a French law against justification of war crimes over statements he made about Adolf Hitler during the Cannes film festival.

Von Trier said: "Due to these serious accusations I have realised that I do not possess the skills to express myself unequivocally and I have therefore decided from this day forth to refrain from all public statements and interviews."

The director said he was questioned by Danish police in connection with charges made by the prosecution of Grasse in France.

Von Trier was ejected from the Cannes Film Festival in May after expressing sympathy for Adolf Hitler at a news conference for his film "Melancholia."

AP