Helle Nächte (2017)

Michael, a civil engineer originally from Austria, lives in Berlin with his girlfriend. When he learns that his father has died, he persuades his 14-year-old son Luis to go with him to Norway to attend the funeral. Michael’s father had withdrawn into the solitude of northern Norway long ago. Up there in the far north, Michael hopes for a fresh start, because his relationship with his son—whom he has had only sporadic contact with in recent years—is strained after his long absence. He begins talking with Luis during the drive. Michael does not know whether it is already too late to make things right between them. After the memorial service, he surprises his son by suggesting that they spend a few more days in the region during the summer solstice. During their stay in Norway, it becomes clear how hurt Luis is by his father’s long absence. At first, the two cannot talk at all, and even later they find it difficult to communicate. Although Michael admits to his son that he regrets not taking care of him all those years, the boy does not seem impressed. At the end of the trip, they say goodbye just as distantly as they had first met. As he leaves, Luis merely turns back to look at his father once more, while Michael seems very thoughtful on the drive home.