Film Overview

What happens when something unimaginable occurs? The Icelandic drama unfolds with the tragic death of an art student in a catastrophic traffic accident, which is part of a total of at least 12 fatalities. The narrative captures his disorganized girlfriend as she navigates Reykjavik over the following 12 hours. The journey starts at the hospital, transitions to friends capturing moments, and culminates at a memorial for the deceased. Director Lunar Lunarson focuses more on the emotional landscape than on plot twists. The film is enhanced by nuanced performances, particularly by Erin Hall as the girlfriend, adding a lifelike depth to the story.

Interestingly, UNA, the girlfriend, isn’t truly defined as such. She shares a college with the deceased, Didi (Baldur Einerson), and they collaborate in a punk band. Yet, Didi has a girlfriend back home. Their relationship had included several intimate encounters over the past few months. The film opens with sunlight illuminating the disheveled hair on her neck, dust particles dancing in the light. Didi was on his way to end things with his girlfriend when the tragedy struck.

The narrative closely follows Una, who drifts aimlessly through her day without a clear plot. Newcomer Hall delivers a remarkably authentic portrayal of a grief-stricken and confrontational woman deeply impacted by loss. On autopilot, she confronts the arrival of Didi’s official girlfriend, Clara (Katra Narsdotir). “Clara really has to go,” remarks one friend as they discuss the dynamics. “They were the perfect couple.” The interactions between the two women become some of the film’s most engaging moments. Clara seeks connection with Una, raising the question of doubt and underscoring the tension between them. This dynamic breathes purpose into the film’s otherwise meandering narrative.

When the Light Breaks is set to be released in cinemas across England and Ireland starting May 23rd.