Gutland

Gutland is a 2017 thriller film that tells the story of Jens, a young criminal who flees his hometown to escape the law. He finds himself in a small rural town in Luxembourg, where he pretends to be a gardener in order to blend in with the locals. There, he meets Lucy, a lonely and mysterious woman who lives with her father in a secluded farmhouse. Jens starts to fall for Lucy, but soon realizes that the town has some dark secrets that threaten to consume him.

The film was shot on location in Luxembourg and features a talented cast of actors led by Vicky Krieps as Lucy, Frederick Lau as Jens, and Pit Bukowski as the town's sheriff. Krieps, who gained international recognition for her role in Paul Thomas Anderson's Phantom Thread, delivers a haunting performance as a woman struggling with her past while trying to keep her family together. Lau, known for his work in German films, convincingly portrays a man on the run who is torn between his desire for a new life and his criminal instincts.

Gutland is a film that explores themes of identity, redemption, and community in a unique and captivating way. The small town setting creates a claustrophobic atmosphere that adds to the tension and suspense of the story. The lush landscapes of Luxembourg are beautifully captured by director Govinda Van Maele, who infuses the film with a dreamlike quality that enhances the surreal nature of the narrative.

One of the key strengths of Gutland is its attention to detail in creating a believable world for its characters to inhabit. The costumes, sets, and props are all designed to reflect the rural life of the town and its inhabitants. The film also features an original score composed by Jean-Christophe Onno that perfectly captures the mood and tone of each scene.

Ultimately, Gutland is a film that defies easy categorization. It's part thriller, part drama, part romance, and part mystery. It's a film that keeps you guessing and leaves you with more questions than answers. While it may not be for everyone, those who appreciate a thought-provoking and visually stunning film will find much to admire in Gutland.