Rift (2017 film)

Rift is a 2017 Icelandic mystery thriller film directed by Erlingur Óttar Thoroddsen. The film explores themes of paranoia, repressed feelings, and the psychological impact of isolation.

The story centers around Gunnar, who receives a distressed phone call from his former boyfriend, Einar. Concerned, Gunnar drives to Einar's remote family cabin in the Icelandic highlands to check on him. Einar seems unstable and haunted, claiming to experience strange occurrences and a growing sense of dread. As Gunnar tries to help Einar, he begins to question Einar's sanity and the reality of the situation. They are increasingly isolated by a snowstorm.

Throughout the film, the nature of their past relationship is gradually revealed, adding another layer of complexity to the already tense atmosphere. The film utilizes the stark Icelandic landscape to create a sense of unease and foreboding, mirroring the psychological turmoil experienced by the characters.

Rift delves into the lingering effects of past trauma and the fragility of human relationships under duress. It relies heavily on suspense and suggestion rather than overt horror, leaving much open to interpretation regarding the true nature of the events unfolding.