So far as I know this is the only Icelandic movie I've ever heard of let alone seen but I saw some positive reviews in the press and decided to give it a try. I was unable to prevent myself comparing it to a recent Russian film Koktobel; both involve journeys, one tangible and one metaphorical and neither film is going to boost the tourist industry in their respective countries. One gets the feeling that if Samuel Beckett were to specify landscapes for his depressing plays the one depicted here would be ideal. One looks in vain, if not desperation, for a sliver of colour to temper the drabness. Neither is anyone having much fun so that a break in Siberia would be a step upwards. The main mystery is well handled and the detective well drawn though there is little to make him stand out from the crowd unless you count his penchant for dining on sheep's head from which he removes and eats the eyes with relish. Having seen one example of Icelandic film-making I'd certainly consider others.
Review of Jar City
