In 2000, Iceland's now-defunct Decode Genetics was one of the first companies to try and mine the genetic information of an entire population; so it's maybe not too surprising to find an Icelandic thriller that turns on the patterns of the inheritance of disease. 'Jar City' also emits a strong feeling of the country's extraordinary geography, and of the reserved, defensive natures of a people who live in such a harsh environment. What it doesn't do so successfully is work as a thriller; Ingvar Sigurthsson's gruff leading detective is little more than gruff, and no-one seems to have wholly sufficient motivation to explain their behaviours. For all the striking scenery, this isn't a tourist authority's view of the country; but it's unwelcoming feel is a little off-putting, even to viewers with no intention of leaving their seats.
Review of Jar City
