Radio Lady Reviews: "The Iceberg" (Opens May 11 in Portland, OR)

"L'Iceberg"

“The Iceberg”, a French language and subtitled film, just opening in many theaters in this country, is a charming 2005 foreign film from Belgium. You may have to look for it among the local specialty theaters, such as the “Living Room Theaters” here in the Portland, Oregon area. It is worth the trouble and you may find the “Living Room Theaters” experience to be a special treat in itself. Modest dining is offered in the lobby and the oversized theater seats are really comfy.

Back to the “The Iceberg”…this is definitely an offbeat comedy, which harkens back to the brilliant antics of silent movie stars such as Harold Lloyd, and Buster Keaton…especially since the dialog is minimal. I assume that director was seeking this result but didn’t go so far as to add jerky movements in black and white.

“The Iceberg” stars Fiona Gordon in the part of Fiona, a manager of a fast food restaurant in Brussels. She offers a special appearance and demeanor that defines her in the way classic visual comedians have always portrayed themselves, celebrating their oddness and then adding there own unique comic movements. She is much reminiscent of Shelley Duval at her best. Dominique Abel, who offers his own comic "shtick", nicely plays her husband, Julien. Fiona and Dominique, by the way, share writing credits with Bruno Romy.

So, what’s so funny? Well, I don’t want to spoil the story for you, so, I just tell you a little. One night, Fiona accidentally locks herself in the restaurant’s fast food freezer. She survives apparently uninjured but with thereafter being drawn to cold and dreaming of embarking on a voyage to her iceberg. To satisfy her obsession, she leaves her husband and children. She takes up with deaf “Sailor” René le marin played by Philippe Martz. Julien chases after the tiny sail boat enduring one comical mishap after another.

As is true of all visually superior comedy, it has to be personally experienced to be fully appreciated. So, check out “The Iceberg” for yourself. I rate it an "A" on Ellen's Entertainment Report Card. If you’re in Portland, check out the Living Room Theaters…you won’t be disappointed. They're at 341 SW 10th Avenue, Portland. Call the main number for showtimes: 971-222-2010. Here's a link to their site:

www.livingroomtheaters.com

For later.