Lamb

Lamb (2021) is an Icelandic folk horror-drama that was directed by Valdimar Jóhannsson. This deeply haunting tale features dark elements of fantasy and mythology while expressing the emotions of grief, all of which cleave together to provide a dread-inducing psychological experience that is as bone-chilling as powerful. The narrative inhales and exhales loss, nature’s wrath, and the uncanny reality that is born from violating the unspeakable.

🎥 Trailer Vibes

The Cicely landscape of Iceland serves as the backdrop for the trailer and it introduces a calming yet mournful atmosphere. Ingvar and Maria, a couple who live in isolation on a tranquil farm, are introduced and hauntingly silence is pervasive. When the couple uncovers a human-lamb hybrid infant inside their sheep barn, the serene atmosphere quickly shatters. The trailer escalates in discomfort while glimpsing through ancient and malevolent signs colorfully intertwined with moments of intimacy. The tension is charged with horror but, the emotional weight is the aspect that lingers the longest.

🌟 Cast Highlights

Noomi Rapace as María – A mourning mother who finds new positivity in the visually peculiar child she nurtures.

Hilmir Snær Guðnason as Ingvar – María’s partner who silently endorses their arrangement but, is disturbed at the same time.

Björn Hlynur Haraldsson as Pétur: Ingvar’s brother, who shatters the delicate tranquility of the family.

The enigmatic child that intrigues humanity and nature alike. (Ada): Lamb-Human Hybrid

📖 Synopsis

Maria and Ingvar live an utterly secluded life on an Icelandic farm, imbibed with agony of the past. Everything changes when they come across a bizarre newborn in what is supposed to be a sheep barn— a curious blend of a human and a sheep. The duo decides to rear the animal as their own, which brings joy along with a sense of comfort. But their bond is non-natural and soon brings the couple face to face with something vengeful and ancient. As the couple grapples with things that are unhealed, the decision of upsetting nature triggers tragic and bizarre occurrences.

Lamb aplombs itself in visually striking cinematography that grasps the feelings of love and ache that stemmed from the overly familiar phrase, ‘playing god,’ and what life-changing consequences come with it. Quite comical, isn’t it?