‘Memories of Old Awake’, directed by Patrick Chadwick, is an exquisite short documentary that skillfully intertwines history, landscape, and storytelling. With Dr. Emily Lethbridge as our engaging guide, we embark on a journey deep into Iceland’s rugged terrain to unravel the ancient tale of GÃsli the Outlaw. With breathtaking cinematography that captures the raw, untamed beauty of Iceland, the film makes you feel as though you’re breathing in its crisp air and standing on its volcanic soil.
Dr. Lethbridge, with her palpable passion and academic rigor, brings the 10th-century saga to life, not through dry text but through the voices of locals who carry the legend in their hearts. Her narration is both informative and personable, striking a perfect balance between scholarship and the warmth of oral tradition. It’s refreshing to see a documentary that doesn’t rely on re-enactments or heavy-handed dramatizations but instead trusts in the power of the landscape and the authenticity of local knowledge.
The film’s bilingual presentation, with English and Icelandic dialogue, adds an extra layer of authenticity, grounding the viewer in the cultural context of the sagas. The English subtitles are seamless, allowing non-Icelandic speakers to fully immerse themselves without losing the flow of the narrative.
In just a short runtime, ‘Memories of Old Awake’ educates and captivates. Its an invitation to experience Iceland’s past and present, making you yearn for more stories hidden in its landscapes. Highly recommended.
