- Genre
- Drama
- Year
- 1929
- Runtime
- 2h45
0
Laila
A timeless journey between worlds and identity unfolds silently.
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Synopsis
Laila is a 1929 Swedish-Norwegian silent film directed by George Schnéevoigt, starring Mona Mårtenson in the titular role. Set against the pristine and rugged landscapes of the Norwegian North, the story follows Laila, a young girl who is adopted and raised by a Sami family after being found in the wilderness. As she grows older, Laila grapples with her identity, caught between two worlds — the indigenous Sami culture that nurtured her and the broader society from which she originated. The film beautifully captures themes of belonging, cultural identity, and the connection between humans and nature, all portrayed through expressive silent film techniques and stunning cinematography that highlights the majestic Scandinavian environment.
Cast
Reviews
Laila (1929) holds a special place as a silent film that masterfully combines evocative storytelling with breathtaking visuals. On IMDb, it maintains a solid rating of 7.5/10, reflecting generally favorable viewer responses highlighting its emotional depth and atmospheric cinematography. Critics have praised Mona Mårtenson's compelling performance, noting how she silently conveys complex emotions, which is essential in a silent film. While not widely rated on aggregators like Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic due to its age and niche status, historical reviews and retrospectives commend the film for its authentic portrayal of Sami culture and the naturalistic setting, which was groundbreaking at the time. Some modern viewers mention that the pacing can feel slow compared to contemporary films, and that the silent-era storytelling style requires patience. However, many appreciate this as part of its charm and historical significance. Film scholars often highlight Laila’s contribution to Scandinavian cinema and its empathetic approach to indigenous narratives. Overall, it remains a poignant and visually impressive classic that offers viewers a window into early 20th-century silent filmmaking and cross-cultural storytelling.
