“A thoughtful and dynamic blend of genres”—On April 1, see Woman at War to continue our Silver Anniversary Rescreens! First screened at Scandinavia House in 2020, this contemporary environmental fable follows one Icelandic woman’s stubborn efforts to be on the right side of history.

Behind the scenes of her quiet routine, the independent 50-year-old Halla leads a double life as a passionate environmental activist. Known to others only by her alias “The Woman of the Mountain,” Halla secretly wages a one-woman-war on the local aluminium industry. As Halla’s actions grow bolder, from petty vandalism to outright industrial sabotage, she succeeds in pausing the negotiations between the Icelandic government and the corporation building a new aluminium smelter in the mountains.

But right as she begins planning her biggest and boldest operation yet, she receives an unexpected letter that changes everything: her application to adopt a child has finally been accepted, and a little girl is waiting for her in Ukraine. As Halla prepares to abandon her role as saboteur and savior of the Highlands to fulfill her dream of becoming a mother, she decides to plot one final attack to deal the aluminium industry a crippling blow.

“Deftly centralizes a profound humanity…” (Variety)

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This program has been supported by the Monika and Charles Heimbold Fund for Exhibitions and Programs.