Hounds

Lars and his father Henrick are newcomers to the German region of Uckermark. Their lives are somewhat isolated from those of their new neighbours and from each other. Being 16-years-old, Lars' relationship with his father is typically characterised by a general lack of communication. Henrick prefers to busy himself with the redevelopment of their new home, awaiting the arrival of family guests for a Christmas meal. Lars roams the frozen countryside with only dogs for company until he meets local girl Marie, whose spirit and enforced silence he finds both refreshing and captivating.

In this atmospheric and elliptical film, debut director Ann-Kristin Reyels shows herself to be both a keen and sensitive observer of young people and of family dynamics; with her attention to tiny gesture and the subtle changes of human behaviour revealing an acute awareness of character.

The beautiful frozen landscape of north-eastern Germany serves as a fitting setting for her poignant and metaphorical tale. Its chilling snow, ice and frost contrasting with the gentle humour, wit and sometimes chaotic interaction of her characters.

Sarah Lutton