“Hurray for all kinds of things!” – Buoyed by that vague yet uplifting slogan, comedian Jon Gnarr galvanized the disaffected voters of Reykjavik, Iceland, in 2010. What began as political satire in the face of dysfunctional, corrupt and out-of-touch government, eventually became more than a joke, as Gnarr captured the hearts of voters in the 2010 race for mayor of Iceland’s largest city. His surprising campaign is the subject of the documentary “Gnarr,” which will be shown at the Latchis Theatre this Saturday, June 11, at 4 p.m.
It’s impossible not to see similarities with our own political scene, although what’s happening here is certainly less amusing than Gnarr’s campaign. Still, for all its lightness and humor, “Gnarr” touches a chord – people are tired of politics as usual and are looking to outsiders to shake things up. Not all outsiders possess the kindness, humor and common touch of Jon Gnarr, and that’s why, even though Reykjavik is thousands of miles away, “Gnarr” hits home.
Donations from Saturday’s 4 p.m. screening benefit Latchis Arts. I watched the film last night and was quite moved by it. Whether your allegiance is to Sanders, Trump or even Fred Tuttle, this film is worth checking out.
