LAND OF MINE (2015)

1/11/2017 - Land of Mine (Under Sandet) (2015/2016) – 7/10

This is an intense and grim tale of more of the lost and forgotten from the darkest of times. A moving mix of exhilaration and sadness bleeds into each scene. The ultimate story is a simple one, telling the tale of these poor boys that are meant to die and their teacher/handler who struggles with his own hate and ache. That said, it is told beautifully, in moments of empathy, tenderness, callousness, horror, and cinematic sharpness. In relation, I would say it was like Stand By Me meets Hurt Locker, with maybe a bit of Empire of the Sun.

The main actor (Rolland Moller) is such an imposing and emotionally volcanic figure. He came across like a Swedish Idris Elba, with his physicality, his stern focus, and acting skill. He was rivaled by a slew of strong young actors, most notably Louis Hofman. He reminded me of a Swedish River Phoenix, providing a slick believability and a captivating charisma. I responded strongly to both of their performances and I hope to see them in prominent roles in the near future.

Land of Mine was shot smartly, interplaying the intense suspense of the intricate mine work with the glorious beauty of the farmhouse & the moving sea, all while hovering around the edges of the young soldiers’ loneliness, heartbreak, and hopelessness. Such a tight and evocative effort.