From Iceland a shaggy dog tale of wannabe tough-guys. If you hear more hilariously mangled-English hard-man dialogue this year – deliberate or otherwise – we’d like to know about it.
The film's tagline, 'Almost a Gangster Film', is sarcastically suitable because, until recently, there have been no real Icelandic gangsters.
Screened as part of NZIFF 2009
The Higher Force 2008
Stóra planið
David is a loser; no ‘Higher Force’ kung fu philosophy video can change that. He's followed its wisdom ever since his little brother met with a sad fate, which has haunted David, you could even say stunted his mental growth. Some things you never get over, especially in Iceland. David's martial arts smarts should make him a star with his crew, because they're drongos too and possibly even more delusional. But, a total dud as tough-guy debt collector, he's excluded from their big-time Mafia schemes. Then comes Harald: in his new landlord, David recognises the return of his brother's nemesis and a chance to get some respect. You seriously doubt it's ever going to happen, but the pleasure of this Nordic shaggy dog tale is in the timing and a coolly uncool wit any self-deprecating Kiwi can relate to. And if you hear more hilariously mangled-English hard-man dialogue this year – deliberate or otherwise – we'd like to know about it. — SR/BG