The story unfolds over a single day, introducing us to Una and Diddi, two art students deeply entwined in a clandestine relationship. Their bond is palpable as they share dreams of future travels and intimate moments by the ocean, a scene that has this youth-like quality of feeling endless yet fleeting. However, tragedy strikes early on, with Diddi's untimely death in a tunnel accident, leaving Una to navigate the tumultuous waters of grief and secrecy.
This incident propels the narrative into an exploration of loss and the complexities of hidden relationships among a group of young people who should not have to deal with such a tragedy so early on their lives.
Elín Hall's portrayal of Una is nothing short of remarkable. Her performance captures the raw essence of a young woman grappling with profound loss, internal conflict, and the challenges of maintaining composure amidst personal turmoil. The ensemble cast, including Katla Njálsdóttir as Klara, Diddi's official girlfriend, delivers compelling performances that add depth to the narrative. The interactions between Una and Klara are particularly affecting, as they navigate their shared grief and uncover hidden truths about Diddi, leading to moments of unexpected connection and understanding.
Visually, the film is a treat with cinematographer Sophia Olsson employing a delicate touch, capturing Iceland's ethereal beauty while focusing intimately on the characters' emotional journeys, alternating the gorgeous light of the early scenes with a more muted palette as the drama unfolds. The recurring motif of light, especially the transitions from dusk to dawn, serves as a powerful symbol of the characters' internal transformations.
The film's pacing is deliberate, mirroring the slow passage of time that often accompanies grief. This unhurried approach allows the audience to immerse itself fully in Una's emotional journey, experiencing her moments of despair, introspection, and eventual acceptance. The screenplay is sparse yet laden with unspoken tensions, capturing the authenticity of youthful emotions and the complexities of navigating personal loss in a communal setting.
When the Light Breaks is an affecting and touching exploration of grief early on in life and shared experiences in this age group. It is wonderful in its own quiet ways, offering a contemplative look at the resilience of youth and the unexpected connections that can arise from shared sorrow.
Review by Laurent de Alberti
Star rating: ★★★★☆
Official Selection, Un Certain Regard
When The Light Breaks. Directed by Rúnar Rúnarsson. Starring Elín Hall, Katla Njálsdóttir...
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