By Design Review

This review is based on a screening at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival. The film, while visually stunning, ultimately falls short of its ambitious narrative goals. The cinematography is breathtaking, capturing the stark beauty of the Icelandic landscape with a masterful eye for detail. However, the plot, while intriguing in its initial premise, becomes convoluted and loses its way in the second act. The pacing feels uneven, with moments of captivating tension punctuated by stretches of slow, meandering scenes that fail to advance the story. The performances are uneven; while the lead actor delivers a compelling portrayal of a complex character, the supporting cast feels underdeveloped and their motivations unclear. Despite its flaws, the film's visual artistry and moments of genuine emotional depth make it worth seeing, particularly for fans of atmospheric dramas. It's a film that leaves a lasting impression, even if that impression is a mixed bag of awe and frustration.