Cast
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Birgir Dagur Bjarkason
as Addi
Áskell Einar Pálmason
as Balli
Viktor Benóný Benediktsson
as Konni
Snorri Rafn Frímannsson
as Siggi
Sunna Líf Arnarsdóttir
as Helga
Kamilla Guðrún Lowen
as Anna
Kristín Ísold Jóhannesdóttir
as Hófí
Ísgerður Elfa Gunnarsdóttir
as Hulda
Aðalbjörg Emma Hafsteinsdóttir
as Fríða
Blær Hinriksson
as Símon
Ólafur Darri Ólafsson
as Svenni
Anita Briem
as Guðrún
Theodór Pálsson
as Danni Braindead
Davíð Guðbrandsson
as Haukur
Þórhildur Ingunn
as Elísa
Crew
Director
- Guðmundur Arnar Guðmundsson
Writer
- Guðmundur Arnar Guðmundsson
Producer
- Anton Máni Svansson
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Beautiful Beings examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Guðmundur Arnar Guðmundsson 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 2022, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Beautiful Beings took approximately 17 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 123 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 147 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 341 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
Historical Context
- In 2022, when this film is released:
- Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
- The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Beautiful Beings shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Scum, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Beautiful Beings subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Yi Yi and Kim Novak Never Swam in Genesaret's Lake explore similar territory, Beautiful Beings stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: April 22, 2022
- Runtime: 2h 3m
Where to Watch
