From Iceland comes this beautiful award-winning film, an inspirational fable-like drama which quintessentially showcases the high quality and significance of world cinema.
Gemmi and Kiddi are two elderly brothers who raise sheep on neighbouring properties and have been estranged over 40 years. A virus leads to the mandatory slaughter of all these animals in the valley, resulting in heartache and economic downturn for farmers, the catalyst which reconnects theses siblings. A violent confrontation transpires, ultimately restoring the brotherly love which they once shared.
This human story details the simplistic lives of farmers and touches on the ramifications of unforeseen disasters on the land which lead to loss of livelihood, escalating debts and bankruptcy.
Pleasant and relaxing viewing, this slow-moving film unveils the exhilarating wintry locations of Iceland, inadvertently alluring moviegoers to the panoramic beauty of this country.
Gratuitous nudity and an abrupt ending may detract, but ultimately this alternate cinematic experience is ideal for audiences who are tired of the monotonous Hollywood blockbusters. (MMo)
***1/2
