Nuuk, A Love Story

An Aga Mulach and Alice Dixon reunion that took two decades in the making but one that may possibly stand the test of time. Just a quick geographical once-over, Nuuk is the capital of Greenland, the world’s largest island east of the Canadian Arctic archipelago. Yes, it has unbelievably cold climates and polar bear-inspired clothing is required.

The movie’s hashtag- #subzerolovestory is an injustice to the overall scheme of things. In fact, consider it a travesty as one is made to believe that a stereotypical romance is being brewed to a finish but actually a dreaded atmosphere that encapsulates a sort of twisted play on tragedy ultimately unfolds. The film’s main theme shown at the beginning is the apparent rise in suicidal rates (mostly teenagers) in Nuuk. A sort of useless narrative it seems at first but in the end an important piece of evidence in the mystery that shrouds the successful, jaw-dropping suspense thriller ending.

The chance meeting of Alice Dixon, who portrays Elaiza Svedsen, a depressed and edgy Prozac-popping mother of an equally distant, rebellious son, Karl played gracefully by newbie Ujarneq Fleischer and Aga Mulach, (Mark Alvarez), who befriends Elaiza is by no means accidental. It’s a premeditated encounter with sinister motives that will keep you guessing till the end.

The hook, line and sinker shocking twist ensues and one is left confounded by the revelation that gives justice to the seemingly slow character development. I haven’t seen a movie as engaging since last year’s Hintayan ng Langit played by Eddie Garcia and directed by Dan Villegas.

Nuuk director, Veronica Velasco does not disappoint as this is probably her best film since Inang Yaya back in 2006. As far as Aga and Alice’s performances, just plain familiarity in their respective crafts as they dish out stellar performances worthy of the highest local cinematic recognition. Besides all these, Nuuk offers a refreshing display of cinematography and incidentally highlights its lush frozen atmosphere.

Overall, a Filipino film that anyone can be proud of.