Iona

This bleak, naturalistic family drama begins with a low-key getaway on a ferry, and follows a single mother named Iona (Ruth Negga) as she flees from the Scottish mainland. Accompanied by her teenage son (Ben Gallagher), she travels to a remote island in the Inner Hebrides, which is where she lived as young girl. What has happened to Iona and her son? Why are they on the run? The answer to these questions is withheld for most of the film, which is unhurried and understated to a fault. Containing very little dialogue, it is populated by glum, pensive characters who don't know how to express themselves. In fairness, the scenery is striking, and Negga is impressive as a woman who is haunted by events from her past. Regrettably, though, the film itself isn't worthy of such praise.