I didn't have huge expectations for the film, which is based upon the internationally acclaimed novel by the Norwegain novelist Erik Fosnes Hansen by the same name, directed and scripted by Norwegian Vibeke Idsøe. Idsøe has formerly been best known for her family films and an O.K. comedy, but this is by far her best film to date. The film offers both a great story, beautiful photographed scenes, good film music and great production values and good acting.
Eva Arctander is born while her mother dies at home on a train station in a small town in Norway. The little girl is covered with hair all over her body, much to her fathers shame. We follow her upbringing as well as later life, having to cope with the abnormality of being "dressed" as an animal.
The film functions on several levels, and has been criticized for not having a sharp enough edge. I think that's a load of b.s., and I find it rather relieving that the film is not full of bullying or nastiness. We've seen all that before.
the film is simply beautifully shot by danish cinematography master Dan Laustsen, known from films like Headhunter, I am Dina, The Possession...* Combined with a perfectly made musical score, I found the film a delight to watch on the big screen.
The film is very much a Scandinavian project, with many Danish actors, a brilliant Swedish second lead (Rolf Lassgård) and a couple of good Norewgian female central actors in all the different versions of Eva (as 7, 14 years old and grown up). There are also many good minor roles.
Though I must admit I found a couple of weaknesses. That comes to the believably language spoken by the child as a 7 year old. It was far too advanced. It didn't sound right, and was quite awkward. There's also a couple of other glitches in the dialogues, and Idsøe should have had a script consultant removing this, so that the film would have that weakness. I also was a little bit annoyed by the CGI used on Eva as a baby. Later on, this is perfect.
But when it comes to all, I found the film both interesting and entertaining. And well worth your time!
