Reviews

At first I was intrigued by the plot behind this film. The basis of this film revolves around the relationship between 5 allied soldiers that find themselves caught behind enemy lines. Therefore, as can be expected, the relationships between these characters are the driving forces of this film. Unfortunately, these roles and the overall film were not well executed. Through shoddy writing and poor acting, the 5 characters communicate in an unbelievably awkward emotional environment which cuts out the legs beneath the potential of this film. Additionally, the "unique" editing and filming style is reminiscent of HBO's "Band of Brothers" and the bland acting and screen-writing create a disappointing film. By no means was I expecting a big blockbuster war movie full of special effects. But in doing so, I did expect strong plot and character development which were completely missing from this film.

In a world of big blockbuster movies, it is wonderful to know that there are still films like "Elling"--even if it is subtitled from Norwegian. The interactions between the characters throughout the film require superb acting and they get it. Elling and Kjell Bjarne who are mentally re-acclimating to society live together and play off of each other's quirks evoking comedy and sympathy in a fine balance. Kjell Bjarne, a large slob, and Elling, a fragile man suffering from obsessive compulsive disorder and removal anxiety from his mother, evoke laughter and sympathy. It is a pity that films like "Elling" are so rare compared to the huge-budget monstrosities we call entertainment. Films like "Elling" bring the art back into film-making.