Die Schneeschwester

Message from this wonderful Christmas movie: 'Keep loved ones close at heart at Christmas'. That's how they would have liked to be remembered. Loved and never forgotten. Remember the laughter, the joy, the good times and not the tears. Top marks for subtle storytelling, great directing, careful timing of shots, clever editing, and music with only the smallest hint of suspense that gradually grows on you. 'Opening a present is not as exciting as getting one, it is the suspense that should be enjoyed and prolonged' said the bright, cheerful girl in red, Hedwig.

Slowly, the story unravels and things appear that make you realise that not all are what they seem to be .... and yet, it is so charmingly filmed, that you at first think that it is just a good fun movie for kids. There is a lot more beneath the surface. You are swept along the fjord and scenic beauty of Norway, covered in sparkling Christmas snow icing. Each snowflake crystal is unique, do you know that? There are billions of snowflakes in a snowfall and yet, no two are the same.

A modern day love story as told by children with tons of snow love in their hearts for their young friends and family. Bring home Christmas Joy this Christmas. 🎄

When I sat down to watch the 2024 movie "Snøsøsteren" (aka "The Snow Sister"), it was part of my December movie marathon of Christmas movies. Yup, I had never heard about the movie, prior to watching it, so I literally had no idea what I was in for here.

Right, well I was not prepared for what writers Lisa Aisato, Maja Lunde and Siv Rajendram Eliassen delivered, as I thought I was in for a traditional cheerful Christmas movie. In fact, "Snøsøsteren" was quite the opposite, as it is a very moody, gloomy and sort of sad movie. Not that it is a bad thing, because the storyline is very well-written and well-told, and it is definitely a memorable one and one that will stick with you.

The acting performances in the movie are good, and the two young leading performers Mudit Gupta (playing Julian) and Celina Meyer Hovland (playing Hedwig) really put on great performances and carried the movie quite well.

Don't sit down to watch "Snøsøsteren" and hoping to be in for a cheerful Christmas movie, as I did, because you might be sorely disappointed.

That being said, then I will say, that this is most certainly a movie that is well-worth spending 97 minutes on watching. Though it is hardly a movie that will become a Christmas movie.

My rating of director Cecilie A. Mosli's 2024 movie "Snøsøsteren" lands on a six out of ten stars.

I am so grateful for this story and the the beautiful telling of it that is carried out by the cast and beautiful set contained in this movie. This is not your average Christmas story. It is tender and reaches into grief spaces where many stories cannot get to, the idea of the winter nest is so touching and beautiful, and the amazing snow statue will haunt me forever. I'm grateful for the people who assembled to tell this tale, thank you. The filming is beautiful. The narrative is haunting in a good way, the actors are well cast, and the setting in a fjord is spectacular. Thank you for the story.

First of all, allow me to review some other reviewers: If you are "not in the mood for gloomy/sad" films for christmas or that christmas movies should be cheerful, then your review here is pointless: I'm not placing a review on red paint stating I actually wanted my walls blue either. A review should be about the film, not about a mistake the viewer made.

Having said that, this movie is outstanding and diverse. The score fits the fabulous scenery and sets that were created and makes it a joy for the eyes as well as the heart.

All actors did a good job in this, but the kids in this movie have no freaking business acting so well at this age. From the main actors to their best friend and little sister, all 4 of them were great at not only portraying the emotions, but showing them as children their age would show them, the only exception being some profound wisdoms the main character obtains and explains in the film, but that is an intended deviation due to the plot of the movie. It's clear the actors got the right instructions from the director.

The story takes great artistic freedom when it comes to events happening in it, but not an inch of fantasy when it comes to the realness of the emotions portrayed. It makes for a fine balance.

This film makes me proud and thankful for the dialogue that can be held around themes like grief nowadays.

What a lovely film! Snow Sisters tells a touching and heartfelt story about loss while also offering a hopeful and uplifting message. The main characters, Julian and Hedvig, are portrayed with genuine and nuanced performances, making it easy to empathize with their emotions and actions. This isn't a fast-paced action movie; instead, it's a reflective and tender experience, like savoring your favorite drink. The script is very well written, exploring themes of grief and healing with sensitivity. The cinematography captures the natural beauty of the setting and the emotions of the characters without feeling intrusive, creating a visually engaging experience. The soundscape and special effects subtly enhances the atmosphere, drawing you deeper into the world of the film.

While the theme may feel heavy for some, it mirrors a reality that many can relate to, offering a sense of solace and understanding. For viewers who appreciate meaningful, character-driven stories, Snow Sisters is an emotionally rewarding watch. Highly recommended!