Sometimes the line between "low-budget" and "art film" is very thin indeed, and without being especially familiar with filmmaker Nietzchka Keene, it's hard to say which influence is greater here. Despite the limitations of the feature, I think the art direction and production design are swell. Costume design, hair and makeup, and set design are all very suitable as they create the intended feel of a medieval setting. Of course it helps that the title was filmed in black and white, a choice which makes all the imagery and drama herein stark and bold in its presentation; likewise, Randy Sellars' cinematography is both crisp and rich. At the same time, nothing is seen of the world of the picture outside the immediate vicinity of the characters - much like a true fairy tale, there's a singular focus on only the essential elements of the movie.
Matching the fundamental visuals in a weird way, the greater substance of 'The juniper tree' bears an odd sense of being spartan yet beautiful. I assume these qualities can be chalked up to the writing and direction of Keene: The story is imparted through the realization of the barest essence of each plot point, scarcely expanding any into a larger, more elaborate scene - and where we do get such augmentation, it's an embellishment of fancy that may require multiple viewings to dissect. This quality is reflected in all aspects of the screenplay, including dialogue and characterizations. The cast demonstrate able nuanced range and poise, while their performances are nonetheless consistently restrained - which is to say, almost stilted, delivering each line and moment with apparent careful deliberation. In all these ways the film is complete, cohesive, and whole, yet dances on the edge of feeling bereft and insufficient. Once more: is this a reflection of few resources for the production, or of artful intent? Or perhaps both?
For all the peculiarities, including sometimes curt editing, 'The juniper tree' is really quite excellent, and quietly enchanting. Iceland is country filled with wondrous natural sights, and we get to see a fair amount of it here. Relatively austere and whimsical as much of the production may be, Keene nevertheless illustrates a deft intelligence for building shots and scenes, amplifying the drama. And while it's never a focus, Larry Lipkis' somber, somewhat melancholic score lends further to the simple beauty of each component part. Some of the artistic choices of the feature, rounding out Keene's interpretation of the Brothers Grimm, are arguably a bit dense; at other times the heart of the narrative is deemphasized such that one is best served by reading the source material before watching so as to fully understand the course of events. Even so, the story is engrossing, and compelling, and capably holds one's attention.
This is hardly going to be for everyone. I can't pretend that I grasp every last subtlety of Keene's vision, least of all from a single view, and anyone who can't get on board with more artful, sophisticated films are best served watching something else. Niche though it may be, however, 'The juniper tree' is ultimately well made, with solid acting, direction, and writing. The core is strong, and it's the additional flourishes that may particularly inspire or discourage. While I'm still slightly undecided myself, I think this is worth checking out if one has the opportunity.
Matching the fundamental visuals in a weird way, the greater substance of 'The juniper tree' bears an odd sense of being spartan yet beautiful. I assume these qualities can be chalked up to the writing and direction of Keene: The story is imparted through the realization of the barest essence of each plot point, scarcely expanding any into a larger, more elaborate scene - and where we do get such augmentation, it's an embellishment of fancy that may require multiple viewings to dissect. This quality is reflected in all aspects of the screenplay, including dialogue and characterizations. The cast demonstrate able nuanced range and poise, while their performances are nonetheless consistently restrained - which is to say, almost stilted, delivering each line and moment with apparent careful deliberation. In all these ways the film is complete, cohesive, and whole, yet dances on the edge of feeling bereft and insufficient. Once more: is this a reflection of few resources for the production, or of artful intent? Or perhaps both?
For all the peculiarities, including sometimes curt editing, 'The juniper tree' is really quite excellent, and quietly enchanting. Iceland is country filled with wondrous natural sights, and we get to see a fair amount of it here. Relatively austere and whimsical as much of the production may be, Keene nevertheless illustrates a deft intelligence for building shots and scenes, amplifying the drama. And while it's never a focus, Larry Lipkis' somber, somewhat melancholic score lends further to the simple beauty of each component part. Some of the artistic choices of the feature, rounding out Keene's interpretation of the Brothers Grimm, are arguably a bit dense; at other times the heart of the narrative is deemphasized such that one is best served by reading the source material before watching so as to fully understand the course of events. Even so, the story is engrossing, and compelling, and capably holds one's attention.
This is hardly going to be for everyone. I can't pretend that I grasp every last subtlety of Keene's vision, least of all from a single view, and anyone who can't get on board with more artful, sophisticated films are best served watching something else. Niche though it may be, however, 'The juniper tree' is ultimately well made, with solid acting, direction, and writing. The core is strong, and it's the additional flourishes that may particularly inspire or discourage. While I'm still slightly undecided myself, I think this is worth checking out if one has the opportunity.