​FILMS

force majeure

Force Majeure (Drama): 72 out of 100: This foreign language film primarily in Swedish is an interesting character study that focuses on a family that goes on a holiday in the French Alps to ski and enjoy some precious time together. After they experience an avalanche while eating lunch, their relationships are put under the microscope and it is here where the characterisations are well-developed and examined.

Also in French and English, what makes the film even easier to understand is the subtitles that are used for all dialogue. How often do you see a movie where you can't understand some of the dialogue because of the accents? Problem solved here. The dialogue is realistic and as a result, the audience can relate to the exchanges in conversation.

A major flaw in the movie is the slow pacing. Some of the silent scenes add to the tension but there are some sequences which could be moved along, thus enabling the film to be at around 95 minutes instead of the running time of 2 hours. A tighter film would result in more people wanting to see the film. Those only after some action and faster pacing will be bored.

There are some moments of humour which benefit the film. They help alleviate the tension and demonstrate to the audience that life is filled with both dramatic and humorous moments. These scenes allow viewers to empathise with the characters.

Special mention must go to the crisp, clear cinematography which perfectly enhances the snow surroundings and the music score which has some beautiful classical pieces. The movie is both a visual and aural treat.

This is not the perfect foreign language film because of its very slow pacing but it still deserves to be seen for its brilliant acting, incisive dialogue, beautiful cinematography and exciting music score.

Starring Johannes Kuhnke and Lisa Loven Kongsli
(119 minutes)
Parental advice: Coarse language and nudity
Additional scene during or after credits: No
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3nTJIc_e6Ns (Movie trailer)

(Reviewed on Monday 13th October, 2014)