Ray Pride

(Gódir gestir, 2007) Isold Uggadóttir's trim yet solid Icelandic-American short "Family Reunion" is one of the most assured and gratifying comedy-of-errors in an age. Its American debut was at Sundance, and its first Chicago showing is as part of Reeling. The story starts in New York, where Katrin (Adalbjörg Thóra Árnadóttir) is fearful of how her family back in Reykjavik will react to her girlfriend when they visit for her grandfather's birthday, since she hasn't come out to them. Uggadóttir's simple shooting style on streets and apartments is equally notable here and on their trip to Iceland: there's a strong sense of streets that have been traveled throughout. More admirable is how the comedy of discomfort is played with serene assurance until a truly gratifying finish. A great example of what a short film can be. The song score is by Reykjavik!, Au Revoir Simone, Haukur Morthens and CocoRosie.

"Family Reunion" plays Sunday 6pm at Landmark Century as part of the Reeling program "Girls of the Midnight Sun."

(2007-11-06)

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