Rúnar Rúnarsson's 'When The Light Breaks' Wins Best Nordic Film at Göteborg

Icelandic filmmaker Rúnar Rúnarsson's latest feature, 'When The Light Breaks,' won the Dragon Award for Best Nordic Film at the 48th Göteborg Film Festival, accompanied by a cash prize of SEK 400,000 ($36,000). The film, which premiered in May 2024 at the Cannes Film Festival, tells the story of Una, a young art student navigating grief and personal transformation over a long summer day in Iceland. The jury praised the film for its sensitive portrayal of grief and its masterful visual style. Additionally, 'When The Light Breaks' received acclaim for its performances, especially from its young ensemble cast. Other awards included the Audience Dragon Award for 'Safe House' and the Best Acting award to Andrea Bræin Hovig for her role in 'Love.' Despite its recognition, 'When The Light Breaks' was not nominated for the Best International Feature at the upcoming Academy Awards, as the Icelandic contender is 'Touch.'