When Baldvin and Inga’s next door neighbours complain that a tree in their backyard casts a shadow over their sundeck, what starts off as a typical spat between neighbours in the suburbs unexpectedly and violently spirals out of control.
Under the Tree is a 2017 Icelandic dark comedy directed by Hafsteinn Gunnar Sigurðsson. The film centers on a seemingly trivial dispute between neighbors that escalates into a tragicomic series of events.
The story unfolds around Inga and Baldvin, an elderly couple who refuse to trim or cut down a large tree in their garden, despite their neighbor Konrad’s complaints about the shade it casts on his porch. Konrad and his wife, Eybjorg, are frustrated by the tree’s shadow, which they feel diminishes their quality of life. This disagreement sets off a chain reaction, revealing underlying tensions and unresolved grief within both families.
As the conflict intensifies, the film delves into themes of loss, miscommunication, and the human tendency to escalate minor issues into major confrontations. The narrative is marked by dark humor and satirical elements, offering a critique of societal norms and human behavior.
Main Themes in Under the Tree
- Escalation of Minor Conflicts: The film explores how small disagreements can spiral out of control, leading to unintended and often tragic consequences. The dispute over the tree serves as a metaphor for how minor irritations can fester and explode when not addressed constructively.
- Grief and Unresolved Trauma: Both families are grappling with past losses that influence their actions and perceptions. Inga and Baldvin’s unresolved grief over the death of their son affects their relationship and interactions with others, highlighting how unhealed wounds can manifest in various aspects of life.
- Human Nature and Conflict: The film examines the darker aspects of human nature, including pride, stubbornness, and the propensity to escalate conflicts. It portrays how individuals can become entrenched in their positions, leading to a breakdown in communication and understanding.
- Isolation and Community Dynamics: Under the Tree delves into the dynamics of suburban life, where individuals are often isolated despite being in close proximity. The film highlights how a lack of genuine community and understanding can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts among neighbors.
Impact of Under the Tree
Upon its release, Under the Tree received critical acclaim for its sharp writing, direction, and performances. The film was praised for its dark humor and insightful commentary on human nature. It was featured in several film festivals and garnered attention for its unique storytelling approach. Critics highlighted the film’s ability to blend comedy and tragedy, creating a thought-provoking viewing experience. The film’s success underscored the global appeal of Icelandic cinema and its capacity to tackle universal themes with originality.
7 Reasons to Watch Under the Tree (2017)
- Unique Narrative Structure: The film’s unconventional storytelling keeps viewers engaged, with its unexpected twists and turns. The progression from a simple neighborly dispute to a complex web of events is both surprising and compelling.
- Dark Humor and Satire: Under the Tree masterfully blends dark humor with satirical elements, offering a critique of societal norms and human behavior. The film’s wit provides a fresh perspective on common themes, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.
- Strong Performances: The cast delivers exceptional performances, bringing depth and authenticity to their characters. The portrayal of complex emotions and interpersonal dynamics is both nuanced and compelling, enhancing the film’s impact.
- Exploration of Universal Themes: The film delves into themes such as grief, conflict escalation, and human nature, which resonate universally. Its exploration of these topics encourages viewers to reflect on their own experiences and societal dynamics.
- Cinematic Excellence: Directed by Hafsteinn Gunnar Sigurðsson, the film boasts high production values, with meticulous attention to detail in cinematography and set design. The visual storytelling effectively complements the narrative, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
- Cultural Insight: Under the Tree offers a glimpse into Icelandic culture and societal norms, providing viewers with a broader understanding of different cultural contexts. This cultural perspective adds depth to the film and enriches the viewing experience.
- Critical Acclaim: The film has received positive reviews from critics and audiences alike, highlighting its originality and impact. Its success in various film festivals and critical circles underscores its quality and relevance in contemporary cinema.
How Will You Feel After Watching Under the Tree?
After watching Under the Tree, viewers are likely to experience a mix of emotions, including amusement, discomfort, and contemplation. The film’s dark humor and satirical elements may provoke laughter, while its exploration of human nature and conflict can lead to introspection. The unexpected twists and the tragicomic unfolding of events may leave viewers reflecting on the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of unresolved grievances. Overall, the film offers a thought-provoking experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
