Exploring Themes of Loss and Change in "Once You Shall Be One of Those Who Lived Long Ago"
The new documentary "Once You Shall Be One of Those Who Lived Long Ago," directed by Swedish filmmakers Alexander Rynéus and Per Bifrost, delves into the profound themes of loss, change, and the transient nature of life. Premiering at the Edinburgh International Film Festival on Sunday, this film is the sole documentary featured in the competition lineup of the festival’s 78th edition.
Set against the backdrop of Malmberget, a northern Swedish town that is gradually disappearing due to industrial activities, climate change, and political decisions, the documentary presents a kaleidoscopic view of what remains when a place vanishes—not just physically, but emotionally and culturally. Known as one of the world’s largest underground iron ore mines, Malmberget is being dismantled piece by piece, leaving behind boarded windows, demolished homes, and desolate streets. Yet, amidst the ruins, life finds a way to endure, with nature beginning to reclaim the land.
The film offers a poignant exploration of the town’s last residents, capturing their episodic experiences as they hold on to a sense of home even as the ground beneath them crumbles. "In a small mining town in northern Sweden, we witness a melancholic, humorous, and sometimes absurd final chapter of a place," the synopsis states. "Beneath the town’s fading streets lies an engine of both prosperity and disappearance."
Rynéus and Bifrost embarked on their artistic journey in Malmberget in 2013 with the TV film "Malmberget – The Home and the Cavity." They returned to document the town’s transformation for installation works, culminating in this new feature film which highlights their deep emotional connection to the area. "Though Malmberget is 1,000 kilometers from where we grew up, it feels like a second home—an endangered place that resonates with us," Bifrost shares.
The filmmakers emphasize the human experience of living above one of the world’s largest iron ore mines, noting how mining impacts the community’s psyche. "There was an undeniable mood in the town that we wanted to capture on film," Rynéus explains. "As we spent time there, we developed a collaborative relationship with the locals, who became an integral part of the storytelling."
"Once You Shall Be One of Those Who Lived Long Ago" showcases the lives of these residents through a cinéma vérité lens. "Our approach has shifted over time from focusing on conflict to capturing the resilience of everyday life amid decay," Rynéus adds. The film reflects the filmmakers’ commitment to taking their time in crafting documentaries, allowing for a deeper exploration of emotions and the passage of time.
Describing Malmberget’s current state, Bifrost notes, "The town is almost entirely gone, yet there are still unresolved conflicts, such as the fate of the church. Our previous film focused on finding solutions for the community, while this one seeks to capture the essence of what happens after those solutions are no longer relevant."
As they ponder the future of their work in Malmberget, Rynéus mentions, "After spending 15 years documenting this place, we thought this film would mark the conclusion of our journey. However, we’re considering a project that focuses solely on nature and wildlife in the area."
The film also highlights the complex emotions surrounding the mining industry. "While many residents harbor strong feelings against the mining company, they recognize that the town’s existence was built around it," Rynéus explains. This duality reflects the film’s overarching theme of acceptance, touching on life, death, and the inevitability of change.
Looking ahead, Rynéus and Bifrost are working on a new documentary exploring faith in Sweden, often regarded as one of the world’s most secular nations. "We aim to investigate whether this perception holds true by visiting churches, especially in rural areas where attendance can be remarkably low," Bifrost shares.
The title "Once You Shall Be One of Those Who Lived Long Ago" originates from a poem by Swedish poet Pär Lagerkvist that resonates with the filmmakers. "This phrase encapsulates the essence of our film," Rynéus reflects. "It speaks to the universal experience of places disappearing and returning to nature."
In summary, "Once You Shall Be One of Those Who Lived Long Ago" is not just a documentary about a specific town; it’s a poignant meditation on loss, resilience, and the ever-changing landscape of life. The film seeks to emphasize a universal narrative that resonates with audiences around the world.
