"When the Light Breaks" (Icelandic: "Ljósbrot") is a 2024 Icelandic drama film directed by Rúnar Rúnarsson. The film premiered on May 15, 2024, as the opening selection of the Un Certain Regard section at the Cannes Film Festival.
Plot Summary
Set over a single summer day in Iceland, the narrative follows Una, a young art student portrayed by Elín Hall. Una's world is upended when her secret lover, Diddi, dies in a tragic tunnel accident. As the nation mourns, Una grapples with her concealed grief, unable to openly express her sorrow due to the clandestine nature of their relationship. Throughout the day, she navigates interactions with friends, including Diddi's public girlfriend, Klara, leading to profound reflections on love, loss, and identity.
Director's Vision
Rúnar Rúnarsson crafts a poignant exploration of grief and the human condition, emphasizing the internal struggles of a young woman dealing with loss in isolation. The film delves into themes of hidden relationships and the societal expectations surrounding mourning, encouraging viewers to find beauty and connection even amidst pain.
Themes
Grief and Mourning: Examines personal and collective responses to loss.
Love and Secrecy: Explores the complexities of hidden relationships.
Identity and Self-Discovery: Follows Una's journey toward understanding herself amidst tragedy.
Societal Expectations: Challenges norms related to public displays of grief and personal relationships.
Key Success Factors
Authentic Performances: Elín Hall delivers a compelling portrayal of Una, capturing the nuances of concealed grief.
Cinematic Aesthetics: The film's 16mm cinematography by Sophia Olsson offers a visually striking representation of Iceland's landscapes and light.
Emotional Resonance: The narrative's focus on universal themes of love and loss fosters deep audience connection.
Festival Recognition: Premiering at Cannes' Un Certain Regard section highlights its artistic merit.
Short Summary
"When the Light Breaks" follows Una, a young Icelandic art student, over a transformative summer day as she navigates the hidden grief of losing her secret lover, exploring themes of love, loss, and self-discovery.
Awards, and Nominations: 15 wins & 9 nominations
The film won the Dragon Award for Best Nordic Film at the 48th Göteborg Film Festival.
Critical Reception
Critics have lauded the film for its delicate handling of grief and the strength of its central performance. IndieWire described it as a "Dark Scandi Drama About What Happens When Grief Isn't Allowed," highlighting its exploration of unexpressed sorrow.
Production Summary
"When the Light Breaks" is a co-production involving Iceland, the Netherlands, Croatia, and France. Produced by Heather Millard for Compass Films and Rúnar Rúnarsson's company Halibut, in collaboration with Revolver Amsterdam, MP Film Production, Eaux Vives Productions, and Jour2Fête.
Distribution and Sales Summary
The film is distributed by Jour2Fête in France, with a scheduled release on February 19, 2025. It was released in Iceland in August 2024.
Release Dates
Theatrical Release: May 15, 2024 (Cannes Film Festival); August 2024 (Iceland); February 19, 2025 (France).
Streaming/VOD Release: To be announced.
Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt27476906/
Link to watch: https://pro.festivalscope.com/film/when-the-light-breaks-2
Recommendation
This film is recommended for viewers who appreciate introspective dramas that delve into the complexities of human emotions and relationships. Its evocative storytelling and compelling performances offer a profound cinematic experience.
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