A family on a ski holiday in the French Alps find themselves staring down an avalanche during lunch one day; in the aftermath, their dynamic has been shaken to its core, with a question mark hanging over their patriarch in particular.
A penetrating study of human weakness, Force Majeure shows us things about these characters, and by extension ourselves, that we might not want to see.
Some viewers will find that Force Majeure is simply too uncomfortable for their tastes, but few would deny that it’s a thought-provoking piece of work.
A minor-key appraisal of modern marriage that manages to be funny, sad and, sadly, true – just don’t watch it on your anniversary.
A brittle black comedy that has plenty to say about modern manhood and the human survival instinct.
Östlund's early promise receding fast. All downhill from here?
This deliciously chilling drama charts the aftershocks that tear through a middle-class skiing holiday following a life-changing event in the Alps.
It's a very clever film with a barbed ending.
Highly recommended.
Verdict: Swedish brilliance.
A lacerating satirical sideswipe at the male ego.
This could be a depressingly grim scenario but Ostland sprinkles his film with wry humour, while the mountain scenery glows with otherworldly beauty. Ostland also treats all of his characters with sympathy, encouraging you to put yourself in their ski boots.
Ruben Östlund’s tale of a couple’s disintegrating relationship in the wake of an avalanche is a triumph of calm detachment.
Interview: Force Majeure director Ruben Ostlund--'Sometimes we'd rather die than lose our identity'
Force Majeure's Ruben Ostlund: 'Men are made to feel like they should protect'
Glasgow Film Theatre, Glasgow from Friday April 10, 2015, until Thursday April 16, 2015. More info: http://www.glasgowfilm.org/theatre/
Cameo, Edinburgh from Friday May 15, 2015, until Wednesday May 20, 2015. More info: http://www.picturehouses.co.uk/
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