Lucile Hadzihalilovic Explores Depths of Emotion in ‘The Ice Tower’

The much-anticipated film, The Ice Tower, directed by Lucile Hadzihalilovic, makes its Irish premiere as part of the Irish Film Institute’s French film festival. The adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tale, The Snow Queen, is set against a striking backdrop that blends nostalgia with psychological complexity. The film, featuring Marion Cotillard as Christina, a movie star, and newcomer Clara Pacini as Jeanne, a teenage runaway, delves into themes of obsession and identity.

Hadzihalilovic’s fascination with fairy tales is evident in her cinematic approach. She describes them as often containing “cruel and bizarre” elements while highlighting her personal connection to stories like The Little Mermaid and The Snow Queen. “I was very intrigued by the figure of the Snow Queen herself and her uncomfortable encounter with the girl,” she explains, emphasizing her desire to explore the emotional landscape of the characters.

The film continues Hadzihalilovic’s exploration of the blurred lines between childhood and adulthood, a theme prevalent in her previous works such as Innocence (2004) and Evolution (2015). With The Ice Tower, she crafts a world where the fantastical intertwines with stark reality, engaging viewers on multiple levels.

Capturing Unique Performances

Casting played a pivotal role in the development of The Ice Tower. Hadzihalilovic had envisioned Cotillard for the role of Christina even before the script was completed. Their collaboration dates back over two decades to Innocence, when Cotillard was still emerging as a significant talent. “There are not so many actresses with her stature in France. She really is the kind of woman I admire,” Hadzihalilovic states, acknowledging Cotillard’s complex presence.

Pacini was selected through an open casting call, where she stood out among thousands of applicants. Hadzihalilovic recalls, “I immediately thought, She’s exactly the kind of girl I would put in my film. She’s delicate and graceful yet also quite strong.” The director’s confidence in Pacini is evident, as she believes the actress conveys depth and resilience in her performance.

A Visually Striking Narrative

The film is set in Bolzano, Italy, a location chosen for its unique architectural blend of modernism and classic Austro-Hungarian influences. Hadzihalilovic explains, “We found Bolzano largely for production reasons, but visually it was ideal: modernist, partly built during the fascist era, oddly timeless.” The city’s distinctive aesthetics contribute to the film’s atmospheric tension, reflecting the emotional struggles of the characters.

Hadzihalilovic draws inspiration from various cinematic styles, referencing films such as Dario Argento’s Deep Red and Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger’s Black Narcissus. Every visual element, including the Snow Queen’s costume, is meticulously crafted to enhance the narrative. “The costume designer Emilie Malfaisan worked so hard… It’s close to another queen’s dress. Really like a fairy tale,” she notes.

The film has received acclaim since its premiere at the Berlin International Film Festival, where it won the Silver Bear for outstanding artistic contribution. Audiences have responded positively to its rich imagery and emotional depth, though Hadzihalilovic finds humor in the unexpected interpretations her work inspires. “If they feel something, then yes, they’re right. It doesn’t revolve around a single meaning,” she reflects.

As the Irish Film Institute prepares for the festival, The Ice Tower will screen on November 20, 2025, followed by a Q&A with Hadzihalilovic. The festival offers a platform for the filmmaker to engage with audiences and share insights into her creative process. With her unique vision and dedication to storytelling, Hadzihalilovic continues to challenge and captivate viewers, ensuring that the legacy of fairy tales remains vibrant and relevant.