Watch All That Matters Is Past
- 2012
- 1 hr 45 min
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5.8 (846)
All That Matters Is Past is a Norwegian drama film from 2012, directed by Sara Johnsen. The movie premiered at the 2012 Cannes Film Festival and was later released in Norway in the same year. The film stars Maria Bonnevie, Inga Berger Schou, and Tea Sandanger in the lead roles. The story revolves around two sisters, Aurora and Jannicke, who have been estranged for many years but are brought together by a tragic incident. The film begins with the sisters as children living with their parents in a small house in the Norwegian countryside. One day, their father dies suddenly, and their mother becomes increasingly depressed and distant. The girls are left to fend for themselves and, as they grow older, they drift apart.
Many years later, Aurora, now a successful photographer, returns to Norway to attend the funeral of an old friend. On the way, she stops by the house where she and Jannicke grew up and discovers that the current owner is none other than her sister. Despite their awkward initial encounter and their years of separation, Aurora and Jannicke begin to reconnect, and it becomes clear that both women have been deeply affected by the loss of their father.
As the story unfolds, we learn more about the events that led up to their father's death and the hidden secrets that have been kept from each other for many years. The film switches seamlessly between various time periods, partially revealing the truth about what happened, and we are left to piece together the rest.
All That Matters Is Past is a poignant and powerful exploration of grief, loss, and fractured family relationships. The film is shot beautifully, making full use of the stunning Norwegian countryside, and the performances by the lead actresses are both nuanced and affecting.
Maria Bonnevie, who plays Aurora, is particularly impressive in her role as a woman struggling to come to terms with her own emotional trauma while still trying to reach out to her sister. Bonnevie is a well-known Swedish actress who has appeared in a range of international films, and she brings a quiet intensity and naturalism to her performance that makes Aurora feel like a fully-realized character.
Inga Berger Schou, who plays Jannicke, is equally compelling, especially as her character slowly begins to open up about the past and her own regrets. Schou is a relative newcomer to acting, but her skill in conveying the complexity of Jannicke's emotions is impressive.
Tea Sandanger, who plays their childhood friend and later a connection for Aurora as an adult, also delivers a strong performance, providing an additional emotional anchor in this poignant drama film.
Overall, All That Matters Is Past is a haunting and heart-wrenching movie that will stay with viewers long after the final credits. It is a film that explores the complex dynamics of family relationships and the pain of loss in a way that feels both honest and relatable. Sara Johnsen's direction is measured and thoughtful, and the cinematography by Trond Høines uniquely captures the beauty of Norway without ever feeling like a travelogue. This movie is a definite recommendation for those who enjoy a well-made drama film.
All That Matters Is Past is a 2012 thriller with a runtime of 1 hour and 45 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.8.