NOR26 The Love That Remains

This brilliant new film from award-winning writer/director Hlynur Pálmason (Godland, A White, White Day), tenderly and amusingly captures a year in the life of a family of five, as the parents navigate their separation. Though they are splitting up, Anna and Magnus still spend time together for the sake of their three children, Ída and twins Þorgils and Grímur (played by the three real-life children of director Pálmason). Magnus works at sea, infrequently returning to land, where he asserts himself as the patriarch with limited efficacy. Anna is an artist whose vast works fail to receive suitable recognition. In their interactions, there is the familiarity of a long-held love and a glimmer of a chance of reconciliation. Pálmason's film conveys deep affection for its characters and the gorgeous Icelandic environment, delivering a soulful look at the importance of family and shared memories amidst the changing seasons. Special mention must also go to Pálmason's sheepdog, Panda, who stars in the film and was awarded winner of the prestigious Palme d’Og award at the Cannes Film Festival.