101 Reykjavík

This is the first feature film that Baltasar Kormákur wrote and directed, although he was already well-known as an actor at the time it was produced (2000). Hlynur (played by the versatile and talented Hilmir Snær Guðnason) is the anti-hero: 30 years old and unemployed, still living at home with his mother, an outsider who can't seem to connect with people except through drinking and/or sex. While Hlynur is having trouble coping with the most basic parts of his existence, his mother complicates things by bringing home her incredibly sexy lesbian lover. And we thought Hlynur was confused before.

I enjoyed 101 more the first time I watched it: the surprises were intact, the humor fresh, each lovely shot of Reykjavík a visual treat. It features excellent acting and great music. On my second viewing I found myself wishing for more nuance and subtlety. Nevertheless it's an entertaining film, and one you're not likely to forget.

Hybrid

No, not my Prius, this film:

Little Trip to Heaven, directed by Baltasar Kormákur. 2005. Featuring Forest Whitaker and Julia Stiles. Filmed in Iceland and Minnesota. Drama. "There is no such thing as a no fault death."


This Iceland/US hybrid might have been called "Lost in Translation." Oops, that was used already (another film I expected to like, but which I found stultifyingly dull).

An insurance claims inspector investigates a suspicious death and a one-million-dollar policy involving an abused (and, of course, lovely and young) woman and her--brother? husband?
Dark, cold, atmospheric scenery that enhances the foreboding feel of the film. Excellent acting on the part of the ever-versatile and appealing Forest Whitaker.

The film has Icelandic scenery, some good acting, and lots of suspense. But it is disjointed--the plot doesn't hang together, and it is a disappointing effort by a director with at least two exceptionally fine films under his belt (The Sea, 101 Reykjavík). I am expecting Kormákur's Myrín not to disappoint! When will I be able to see it?