Watching this low/no-budget amateur production, I certainly didn't expect to have a movie experience, but I did. I didn't expect to be moved, but I was. The reason is that this is a movie with heart. These are not indifferent filmmakers. I've seen many a film with a huge box-office record that gave me less than Mengaloth. The contemplative voice-over steers you into the very soul of the main character Palo, and ultimately the soul of the film and perhaps the filmmakers as well. You find yourself caring about the story, about Palo's destiny, about the ancient battle between good and evil, and before you know it you are enthralled, not unlike a childhood experience of fairy-tales by firelight. The nature footage effectively showcases the unique landscape, and especially those oh-so-valuable helicopter shots make you want to turn in your house key and move straight to Sokndal. The characters are charming, sometimes serious and sometimes humorous whether intended to be or not. Despite its more or less obvious flaws, Mengaloth takes itself seriously in a positive way, and makes an impression that lasts. It is truly amazing through all the simultaneous tasks of acting, directing, producing, making props and costumes, motivating volunteers, and the like, that the director manages to keep his vision alive. Seemingly insurmountable production challenges are overcome, believable acting is performed, ice cold waters are traversed, wobbly props are satisfactorily assembled, experience and years are accumulated, and multitasking director Lundø is an amateur no more. The future looks bright!
