Insomnia (1997)

Insomnia is a cynical film with cynical characters but all overlaid with the relentless shine of midnight sun. Which shines above the Artic Circle and during summer months shines as long as your local 7-11 shines, 24 hours. The unlikable hero who despises animals and even most human life also contrasts the films bright set. Holding himself higher and disregarding feelings and moral rights of others. A well acted character also with much strong development throughout the riveting film.

A man from Sweden is sent to Norway to investigate the murder of a young woman. With attempts to cope with the everlasting sun and his own loneliness taking hold he finds himself in unique tough situations. In which, begin a string of lies to erase these from history. In his tries in finding the murderer he himself becomes the prey among being haunted by the suspected murderer and his own problems of insomnia.

The first film from the Norwegian director is fresh and artistically directed. With fast edits and beautiful shots of the fog and eternally lit landscapes. Which are then shadowed by the storm being told atop the grounds and the evil man who is the focus of the story. Dialogue is decent although not smart. Acting is well played but development remains only heavy in our main character with some rubbing off to our suspect.

A cryptic murder mystery best seen in the late hours of the night when usually the sun will neglect shining. And you can even more enjoy the thrilling twisted picture of a crooked man and his poor choices leading him down illegal pathways and dark encounters. A wonderful trek to follow as we wind down to the surprising and entertaining finale. A highly recommended film of few flaws and a great start for Erik Skjoldbjærg

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