A pair of young adults, basking in the warmth of an ochre sunset on a rocky coast, chase their dreams as they share intimate moments, jokes, and promises. The boy Diddi (Baldur Einarsson), conjures up plans to terminate his current relationship, seeking to not shroud the young couple's love any longer.
However, life has a morbid twist in store for them. Consumed by a devastating explosion in his hometown of Reykjavik, Diddi's tomorrow never arrives. The girl, Una (Elin Hall), is left wallowing in heart-wrenching despair, the echoes of their shared dreams turning into haunting reminders of what could have been.
The movie, "When the Light Breaks" (Ljósbrot), directed by Runar Runarsson, delicately navigates through the profound grief and unexpected loss suffered by a group of young adults in Reykjavik, with Una front and centre. The film captures the audience's attention with its poignant portrayal of grief, unfolding through a remarkable cinematic language that is as powerful as it is sensitive.
Runarsson's keen eye for the subtle moments of grieving and loss paired with his exceptional storytelling abilities transform this simple theme into a compelling narrative. His unique approach to dealing with loss, grieving and sorrow transcends a commonplace narrative into an art. The director, along with cinematographer Sophia Olsson, frames each scene with the precision of painting a still life, evoking an unexpected emotional resonance despite the distance from the characters.
The aftermath of the explosion reverberates through the entire city, depicted subtly in a quiet sequence at the onset and later with the ominous sights of half-mast flags, symbolizing the grief-stricken nation. An unlikely group forms in the wake of this tragedy, comprising Diddi's friends, girlfriend, and band members, forging a bond through shared loss and grief.
One of the most significant dimensions of the movie unfolds in the shared sorrow of Una and Klara, Diddi's girlfriend. The interplay between the duo's distinct ways of mourning forms a turning point, with Una suppressing her grief to keep Diddi's promise of breaking up with Klara a secret. This internal struggle and the resulting emotional torment are vividly portrayed, stemming from the complicated dynamics of love, loss, and loyalty that the film encapsulates.
"When the Light Breaks" is a testament to universal themes of love and loss, illustrating the profound impacts of unexpected grief. The movie asserts itself as a compelling contender for recognition well beyond the festival circuit, thanks to its relatable themes and excellent direction.
