Viewing life through the lens of an uninspired, socially defective, 30 year old man doesn't seem particularly uplifting. Geek Hylnur, the protagonists of the film '101 Reykjavik', doesn't want much out of life. He is content living at home with his mother, spending time at the local bar and surviving purely on the social benefits the state provides. However, the story of Hlynur transpires to be one full of fantasy, humor and lust. And in the end, it gives the audience the hope that maybe meaning can be found after all. '101' Reykjavik', directed by Baltasar Kormakur, is set in Reykjavik, Iceland. The location sets the mood for the entire film, and can be seen as a representation of Hlynur. Hlynur is somewhat of an "anti-hero" - an immature, childish and socially isolated man who does not want more out of life than he currently enjoys. He spends his days half-heartedly searching for employment, without any real conviction behind his actions. He is blissfully unaware of any greater pleasure that can be found in life. How quickly life can change. A night of passion, an unexpected love affair and an unusual family dynamic all emerge, shocking Hlynur out of his lull and into a world full of confusion and complications.
Kormakur's characterization of Hlynur is the driving force behind the film's success. Hlynur isn't an active participant in life - life mostly just happens to him. His life borders on the brink of tragedy, meaningless and hilarity. It's an uncomfortable balance that leaves the audience desperately entertained. Voice overs are utilized to convey the isolation of Hlynur and how desperate his struggle is to connect to the world his lives in. The coming of age of Hylnur is a huge theme throughout the film. Hlynur begins rid himself of his past life, and a chance to turn away from the dark and gloomy tones that had pervaded his life. The stunning Icelandic landscape around him suggests that there is in fact beauty and hope to be found in the world. Kormakur directs the film brilliantly. The setting of Reykjavik is used as a metaphor for for Hylnur. It is snowy, desolate and unwelcoming - a perfect representation of Hylnur and his love life. The establishing shots throughout the film of the magnificent landscapes of Iceland and it's bustling nightlife do a marvelous job of making the audience feel like they are actually at the location of the story. Dry, unexpected humor is strewn throughout the film in a masterful way. This is displayed perfectly in an interaction between Lola, a local Spanish flamenco instructor, and Hlynur Lola: "So, what do you do?" Hlynur: "Nothing. Lola: "What kind of nothing?" Hlynur: "The nothing kind of nothing."
Kormakur uses humor to engage the audience, while at the same time revealing the depths of Hlynur's meaningless and loneliness extend to. I particularly enjoyed the performance of the actor who portrayed Hlynur - Hilmir Snaer Gudnason. Through him, we can get a sense of Hlymur's emptiness and longing for meaning throughout the film. I found myself feeling sympathetic towards him, despite many of his unendearing character traits. Gudnason, and all the other actors in the film, deliver their dialogue in a believable and engaging way, pushing the film along with their wonderful performances.
'101 Reykjavik' is a wonderful reflection of the changes occurring in Iceland, in particular the progressive social values that the film depicts. I enjoyed the film thoroughly. I felt as though the plot progressed a little slowly at times, but the performances of the lead actors drove the film through these dull periods. Despite the fact that the plot is completely bizarre, I found myself relating to the plight of Hlynur and hoping that he could overcome the trap in which he had found himself. UItimately, the film conveys a timely message of hope.
I would definitely recommend this film. If you are able to overcome the complete absurdity of the storyline, you will find yourself engaged with the characters, while at the same time enjoying the breathtaking scenery that is on offer throughout the film. Kormakur proves himself to be a fantastic director, and the dialogue between the characters is dry, witty and unpredictable. '101 Reykjavik" is constantly entertaining and well worth watching.
Kormakur's characterization of Hlynur is the driving force behind the film's success. Hlynur isn't an active participant in life - life mostly just happens to him. His life borders on the brink of tragedy, meaningless and hilarity. It's an uncomfortable balance that leaves the audience desperately entertained. Voice overs are utilized to convey the isolation of Hlynur and how desperate his struggle is to connect to the world his lives in. The coming of age of Hylnur is a huge theme throughout the film. Hlynur begins rid himself of his past life, and a chance to turn away from the dark and gloomy tones that had pervaded his life. The stunning Icelandic landscape around him suggests that there is in fact beauty and hope to be found in the world. Kormakur directs the film brilliantly. The setting of Reykjavik is used as a metaphor for for Hylnur. It is snowy, desolate and unwelcoming - a perfect representation of Hylnur and his love life. The establishing shots throughout the film of the magnificent landscapes of Iceland and it's bustling nightlife do a marvelous job of making the audience feel like they are actually at the location of the story. Dry, unexpected humor is strewn throughout the film in a masterful way. This is displayed perfectly in an interaction between Lola, a local Spanish flamenco instructor, and Hlynur Lola: "So, what do you do?" Hlynur: "Nothing. Lola: "What kind of nothing?" Hlynur: "The nothing kind of nothing."
Kormakur uses humor to engage the audience, while at the same time revealing the depths of Hlynur's meaningless and loneliness extend to. I particularly enjoyed the performance of the actor who portrayed Hlynur - Hilmir Snaer Gudnason. Through him, we can get a sense of Hlymur's emptiness and longing for meaning throughout the film. I found myself feeling sympathetic towards him, despite many of his unendearing character traits. Gudnason, and all the other actors in the film, deliver their dialogue in a believable and engaging way, pushing the film along with their wonderful performances.
'101 Reykjavik' is a wonderful reflection of the changes occurring in Iceland, in particular the progressive social values that the film depicts. I enjoyed the film thoroughly. I felt as though the plot progressed a little slowly at times, but the performances of the lead actors drove the film through these dull periods. Despite the fact that the plot is completely bizarre, I found myself relating to the plight of Hlynur and hoping that he could overcome the trap in which he had found himself. UItimately, the film conveys a timely message of hope.
I would definitely recommend this film. If you are able to overcome the complete absurdity of the storyline, you will find yourself engaged with the characters, while at the same time enjoying the breathtaking scenery that is on offer throughout the film. Kormakur proves himself to be a fantastic director, and the dialogue between the characters is dry, witty and unpredictable. '101 Reykjavik" is constantly entertaining and well worth watching.