Header photo by Nick Miners
In 2013, filmmakers Stephen Bevan and Tim Boddy in association with the 405 spent a considerable amount of time in Iceland, embedding themselves within the music scene during the course of Iceland Airwaves and beyond. The purpose of this stay: to film a documentary on the Icelandic music scene.
Tónlist (the Icelandic word for music), the result of this filming expedition, is now to be released on the big screen exactly one year later.
Rather than a purely ‘dry’ look at the festival, the documentary explores a deeper understanding of the Icelandic psyche – and delves into the culture and society of the nation itself (though, often drawing parallels back to the festival and how the Icelandic spirit makes for such a remarkable five day experience).
What is it about Icelandic culture that produces such a rich genre of music? Tónlist features Icelandic musicians, music industry experts, journalists – while utilising the breathtaking scenery from across the island for some truly stunning visuals that are heavily prominent in the doc, alongside footage from the festival itself and the lively scenes found in Reykjavik. Volcanoes from the air, record stores, waterfalls, hotdog stands, glaciers, and magnificent beards: Director Stephen Bevan made sure Tónlist contains a clear and defined style – and that is certainly communicated via the carefully composed and mouthwatering, cinematic manner that it is shot in.
Prominent Icelandic musician’s such as Ólafur Arnalds, Ásgeir, Snorri Helgason, Múm, and Ólöf Arnalds are present to perform unique live performances in stunning locations and provide a greater insight into the ethos and character of Icelandic music. The doc of course boasts a gorgeous soundtrack consisting purely of music from Icelanders.
Tónlist is to be premiered at Bíó Paradís in downtown Reykjavik during Iceland Airwaves Festival, on Wednesday 5th November at 14:00. A further screening takes place the day after on Thursday 6th November, also at 14:00 – where the Director and 405 crew will be present.
Entrance is free.
Watch the official trailer below:
The 405 is once again hosting a stage at Iceland Airwaves – head here for more info on that.
