2021 * Not Rated * 1h 32m What an absolute indie gem. Just about everything about it is wonderfu. Great acting, writing, cinematography, and a gorgeous score. Plus it's set in the austere and beautiful Iceland. What's not to like?
The story in "Backyard Village" unfolds slowly, yet before you know it, you've been snagged. It's a dialogue-heavy film that could easily been a play. Brynja (Laufey Eliasdottir) has just left a wellness/rehab facility on the outskirts of Reykavik. She rents a small cottage and before she can settle in, there's a knock on here door. It's a neighbor Mark (Tim Plester), who wants to borrow some paprika for a dish he's preparing. He comes back a few minutes later to join him for dinner.
At first their interactions are a bit awkward and their conversation is light and witty. But as the film progresses, they each reveal their inner struggles and what brought them to this relatively desolate part of the country. They're both in a great deal of pain and even though they're total strangers, they soon help each other heal from their traumas.
What a tender, emotional film. It's one of those movies that you just know you're going to watch again.
Five out of five stars.
Watch for free on Hoopla (with your library card), Plex, Tubi, and the Roku Channel. Also on Prime.
No comments:
Post a Comment