WHEN THE LIGHT BREAKS by Rúnar Rúnarsson on an impressive awards run
The Icelandic film When the Light Breaks, which opened the Un Certain Regard section of the Cannes Film Festival 2024 has accumulated eleven international awards during its festival run.
Following its lauded Cannes debut, the film has captivated audiences and critics alike at several of the world's most prestigious film festivals, including Toronto International Film Festival, Busan International Film Festival, and Karlovy Vary International Film Festival.
Among its recent international accolades are The European Film Academy Award for Excellence in Hair & Makeup and the Silver Hugo for Best Female Performance, awarded to Elín Hall at the Chicago International Film Festival.
Adding to Rúnarsson's recent successes, his short film O was named Best European Short Film at the Valladolid International Film Festival in Spain. This recognition automatically qualifies the film for consideration at the 2025 European Film Awards. The short had its world premiere at Venice International Film Festival 2024.
“Filmmaking is teamwork, and I've been fortunate to work with extraordinary people throughout my career,” Rúnarsson reflects. “I'm proud of them and what we've accomplished together. Icelandic cinema has been on a remarkable trajectory, made possible by the foundation built through collaboration between government officials, private entities, and artists.”
When the Light Breaks, produced by Heather Millard of Compass Films, features a young ensemble cast including Elín Hall, Katla Njálsdóttir, Mikael Kaaber, Baldur Einarsson, Gunnar Kristjánsson, and Ágúst Wigum. Rúnarsson's short,O, features Ingvar Sigurdsson in the leading role.
Photo: From the world premiere at Cannes 2024.