Cast
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Egill Ólafsson
as Magnús
Þórhallur Sigurðsson
as Theódór Ólafsson
Guðrún Gísladóttir
as Helena Ólafsdóttir
Jón Sigurbjörnsson
as Ólafur Theódórsson
Margrét Ákadóttir
as Laufey Hrímfjörð
María Ellingsen
as Edda Magnúsdóttir
Ingimar Oddsson
as Ólafur Magnússon
Erlingur Gíslason
as Dr. Óðinn
Þröstur Leó Gunnarsson
as Gísli
Árni Pétur Guðjónsson
as Símon
Randver Þorláksson
as Jónas the lawyer
Örn Árnason
as Shopkeeper
Lilja Þórisdóttir
as Svala friend of Teddi
Gunnar Eyjólfsson
as Poet at art exhibition
Edda V. Guðmundsdóttir
as Sigríður the secretary
Crew
Director
- Þráinn Bertelsson
Writer
- Þráinn Bertelsson
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Magnús examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Þráinn Bertelsson brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1989, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Magnús took approximately 23 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 93 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 139 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 10 months to complete.
- The film contains approximately 1634 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1989, when this film was released:
- Personal computers were beginning to transform homes and workplaces.
- Economic policies were shifting toward deregulation in many Western countries.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Magnús shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Maid, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Magnús subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Drowning by Numbers and Little Murders explore similar territory, Magnús stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: August 11, 1989
- Runtime: 1h 33m
