The Love That Remains (2025) is an Icelandic contemporary drama exploring family, separation, and emotional resilience.
The film is written and directed by Hlynur Pálmason, known for Godland and A White, White Day. It stars Saga Garðarsdóttir, Sverrir Guðnason, and features the director’s own children in key roles. The story follows a married couple navigating divorce while raising three children across one year of seasonal change.
Set in rural Iceland, the film focuses on quiet domestic moments rather than dramatic confrontations. It premiered at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, where the family dog Panda won the Palm Dog Award. The film was later selected as Iceland’s official submission for Best International Feature at the Academy Awards.
The Love That Remains Age Rating
The Love That Remains is officially rated 15 by the British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) for strong language.
This rating means the film is suitable only for viewers aged 15 and older, due to mature dialogue and emotional subject matter that may be inappropriate for younger audiences.
Violence & Peril
There is no physical violence in the film. The conflict is emotional, centered on arguments, tension, and the psychological impact of marital separation. Some scenes may feel intense due to realistic portrayals of family strain and emotional distance.
Language
Strong language is used frequently throughout the film. This includes repeated use of the “f-word,” often spoken during moments of frustration or conflict. The language is naturalistic and emotionally grounded rather than aggressive or threatening.
Mature Themes
The film explores divorce, co-parenting challenges, emotional withdrawal, and identity after long-term relationships.
There are brief discussions about dating and sex, mainly involving the teenage daughter’s perspective.
The themes may feel heavy or relatable for teens experiencing family change.
Is The Love That Remains Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–12: No. The emotional tone, strong language, and adult themes are not appropriate for this age group.
Ages 13–14: Not Recommended. While there is no violence, the frequent strong language and divorce-focused narrative may be overwhelming.
Ages 15–17: Yes, With Maturity. Older teens can engage with the film’s emotional depth, especially those comfortable with serious dramas.
Overall, The Love That Remains is best suited for viewers aged 15 and above.
What Parents Can Do
- Talk with teens about how the film portrays divorce without assigning blame or villains.
- Discuss how emotions are shown through silence, routine, and subtle behavior rather than big arguments.
- Encourage reflection on how families can change shape while still maintaining love and care.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for The Love That Remains?
A: The film is rated 15 by the BBFC for strong language.
Q: Is The Love That Remains appropriate for kids?
A: No, the film is intended for mature teens and adults due to language and themes.
Q: Does the film contain violence or scary scenes?
A: There is no physical violence, but emotional tension may feel intense.
Q: Is there strong language in the movie?
A: Yes, strong language including frequent use of the “f-word” appears throughout.
Q: Is there sexual content in the film?
A: There are brief, non-graphic discussions about dating and sex involving a teenage character.