“Force Majeure” (or Turist as orginally titled) is a 2014 drama directed by Ruben Östlund that explores human behavior’s complexities and relationships’ fragility.
The film takes place during a family vacation in the French Alps, where a seemingly idyllic holiday takes a sudden and shocking turn.
Tomas (played by Johannes Kuhnke) and Ebba (played by Lisa Loven Kongsli), a married couple, and their two young children are enjoying a skiing trip in a luxurious resort. Everything appears perfect until an unforeseen incident occurs. During lunch at an outdoor restaurant, a controlled avalanche descends the mountainside, initially causing panic among the diners.
In a moment of panic and self-preservation, Tomas instinctively grabs his phone and flees the scene, leaving Ebba and their children behind. Fortunately, the avalanche turns out to be controlled, causing no harm to the family. However, the emotional fallout from Tomas’ split-second decision exposes deep cracks in their relationship.
As Ebba grapples with the fear and betrayal caused by Tomas’ actions, their once-solid marriage begins to unravel. The incident catalyzes a series of uncomfortable and tense moments, forcing them to confront their insecurities and reassess their roles within the family dynamic.
Tensions escalate as Ebba questions Tomas’ commitment and masculinity while Tomas struggles to justify his behavior and maintain his self-image. The couple’s friends, Charlotte (Karin Myrenberg Faber) and Mats (Kristofer Hivju), also become entangled in turmoil, adding complexity to their interactions.
As the days pass, the psychological strain intensifies, leading to a gripping climax where Tomas and Ebba must confront the truths about themselves and their marriage. The film delves into the nature of trust, gender dynamics, and the complexities of human behavior under extreme circumstances.
“Force Majeure” skillfully explores the line between heroism and cowardice, challenging conventional notions of gender roles and societal expectations.
Available to watch on Max.
The Other Cinema 