Peter Glahn is released after years of incarceration as a political prisoner and is now returning to his homeland, the mythical Mandragora where the sun never sets. On board the ship home, he meets the mysterious Juliana Kossel who vanishes after stealing his heart. Once he arrives on the island, he goes to the family ostrich farm run by his sister Amelia. He finds Amelia living with a farmhand named Cain Ball who fears that Peter’s return will endanger the agreement he made with Amelia that will see him inherit the farm. Amelia has since fallen for the vain Dr. Isaac Solti who controls the island and has a hold on both Zephyr Eccles, the widow of a local fisherman, and Juliana, Peter’s dream girl from the ship. Solti’s true obsession is a recently discovered statue of Venus that possesses strange powers. All the characters meet at Solti’s lab where the sexual tensions erupt.
General information
“Twilight of the Ice Nymphs” is a surrealistic fantasy film directed by Guy Maddin and released in 1997. Known for his unique visual style and unconventional storytelling, Maddin creates a dreamlike and atmospheric world in this movie. However, it’s important to note that the film received mixed reviews upon its release and has a niche appeal due to its experimental nature.
Set on a remote island called Mandragora, the story revolves around Peter Glahn (Nigel Whitmey), a former inmate who returns to the island and becomes entangled in a complex love triangle. The island is inhabited by mysterious ice nymphs who have the power to manipulate the emotions and desires of those around them. As Glahn navigates his relationships with two women, Juliana (Pascale Bussières) and Zephyr (Shelley Duvall), the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur, leading to a series of strange and surreal encounters.
Visually, “Twilight of the Ice Nymphs” is a feast for the eyes. Maddin employs a variety of techniques, including saturated colors, stylized sets, and silent film-inspired intertitles, to create a dreamlike and otherworldly atmosphere. The cinematography is often mesmerizing, with each frame meticulously composed and filled with symbolism and visual metaphors.
However, where the film falls short for some viewers is in its narrative and character development. The plot can be challenging to follow, and the characters are somewhat thinly drawn, which may make it difficult for audiences to emotionally connect with them. Additionally, the film’s pacing is deliberate and slow, which can be a test of patience for some viewers.
Despite its flaws, “Twilight of the Ice Nymphs” has its admirers who appreciate its unique style and the way it transports them into a bizarre and hypnotic world. Fans of experimental cinema and those who enjoy visually striking films may find it intriguing and captivating.
Overall, “Twilight of the Ice Nymphs” is a visually stunning and unconventional film that offers a distinct cinematic experience. While it may not be for everyone due to its experimental nature and narrative shortcomings, it remains an interesting piece of art for those seeking something different and visually arresting in their movie-watching experience.