Review of 101 Reykjavik (2000) by Justina N — 03 Jan 2011

A very funny, almost deadpan Icelandic/British co-production about a 30 something slacker living with his mother and an Italian female lodger who spends his days surfing for porn and having 'just one' drink at the local club every weekend.

How's that for distinctiveness? Thrown into the mix is a beautifully played "coming out" that has repercussions for said slacker, Hlynur, his feelings of worth (he doesn't try to look for work or 'better himself' - what's the point?) and his general apathetic attitude.

An adaptation of a cultish novel, Baltasar Kormakur has made an incredibly warm film in a freezing cold city that has sex, heart, laughs and truth. There are no giant lessons learned or hurdles leapt over, merely small realisations and acknowledgments made.

There is lots to admire here; the idiosyncratic writing, the superb performances (Hilmir Snaer Gudnason is all sorts of delightful man-child geekiness - adorable and stubborn in an awkward fuzzy package), the Almodovar-esque characters and the Damon Albarn co-written soundtrack.