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Hlynur Pálmason on 'El amor que permanece': Finding Grandeur in the Intimate

artist · 2026-08-07

Hlynur Pálmason, an Icelandic director from Höfn, born in 1984, shares insights about his new film 'El amor que permanece' (The Love That Remains), which debuted at the Cannes Film Festival. A graduate of the National Film School of Denmark in 2013, Pálmason previously directed 'Vinterbrødre' (2017), 'Hvítur, Hvítur Dagur' (2019), and 'Goldland' (2022). His latest work spans a year, portraying the effects of a couple's separation on their three children within Iceland's rural scenery. Pálmason prioritizes themes of intimacy rather than broader political issues, delving into family dynamics, nature, and memory. The film includes his children and evolved from his short film 'Hreiður' (Nest), with a focus on simplicity in production, utilizing a lightweight tripod and a small crew.

Key facts

  • Hlynur Pálmason was born in Höfn, Iceland in 1984.
  • He graduated from the National Film School of Denmark in 2013.
  • His debut feature 'Vinterbrødre' (Winter Brothers) was released in 2017.
  • 'Hvítur, Hvítur Dagur' (A White, White Day) premiered at Cannes Critics' Week in 2019.
  • His film 'Goldland' was completed in 2022.
  • 'El amor que permanece' premiered at the Cannes Film Festival official selection.
  • The film follows a couple's separation over a year, with three young children.
  • Pálmason's own children appear in the film, marking the first time all three participate.
  • The film's idea originated from his short film 'Hreiður' (Nest).
  • Pálmason leaves iron artworks outdoors during winter as part of his artistic process.

Entities

Artists

  • Hlynur Pálmason
  • Sverrir Gudnason
  • Saga Gardasdóttir
  • Ida Mekkin
  • Grimur Hlynsson
  • Porgils Hlynsson
  • Harry Hunt
  • Julius Krebs
  • Frosti Fridriksson

Institutions

  • National Film School of Denmark
  • Cannes Film Festival
  • Cannes Critics' Week
  • San Sebastián International Film Festival

Locations

  • Höfn
  • Iceland
  • Denmark
  • Sweden
  • France

Sources