I saw this film at the Berlinale 2013, where is was part of the official Competition. The story line is an achievement in itself, because of mixing an intriguing story together with intriguing characters. Throwing in a parole officer who pops up every now and then, plus some people out of the past with an ax to grind, plus a remote cottage far away from everyone, all this combined creates a setting for an interesting story. All the time it keeps you wondering what will happen next, with hidden agenda's all around. Even a friendly woman who offers to help with the garden, cannot be trusted, so it seems.
It is next to impossible condensing the story here in a few sentences. Moreover, I think it is counter productive to reveal too much of what is going to happen. Lean back and wait for several surprises. (*** warning *** spoiler ahead***) Pity that it ended so miserably for the two main characters.
After the Berlinale festival I learned that this film received the Alfred Bauer Prize (Silver Bear), (start quote) "awarded in memory of the Festival Founder, for a feature film that opens new perspectives" (end quote). I'm not sure I concur, due to my failure to feel with either one of the characters involved. This may be my fault, of course, but it gets in the way of recommending this film without any hesitation. Still, a remarkable piece of work, augmented with great casting and acting all along.
It is next to impossible condensing the story here in a few sentences. Moreover, I think it is counter productive to reveal too much of what is going to happen. Lean back and wait for several surprises. (*** warning *** spoiler ahead***) Pity that it ended so miserably for the two main characters.
After the Berlinale festival I learned that this film received the Alfred Bauer Prize (Silver Bear), (start quote) "awarded in memory of the Festival Founder, for a feature film that opens new perspectives" (end quote). I'm not sure I concur, due to my failure to feel with either one of the characters involved. This may be my fault, of course, but it gets in the way of recommending this film without any hesitation. Still, a remarkable piece of work, augmented with great casting and acting all along.