Keswick Film Festival

Synopsis

Twelve years after he left, Ivan and Andrei's father returns home. He reasserts his position as head of the household, with no explanation, and airily declares the boys are to come with him on a fishing trip up to the Northern Lakes.

But this is no family bonding holiday. Does he intend to force them to grow up, to become men like himself, or merely use them for some private agenda? Few answers are forthcoming but the questions provide their own mystery.

Played out on a beautiful but chilling canvas of deep browns and iron greys, this marks the debut of an outstanding filmmaker. A mysterious and disquieting experience that will stay with you for many days.

Golden Lion, Venice Film Festival 2003