Herd in Iceland

2013 • 28 minutes

About this movie

Herd in Iceland is a documentary about the annual round-up of the Icelandic horse, isolated for centuries by the country's oceanic borders. Herd in Iceland was filmed over the course of 2 years, when Lindsay Blatt traveled to Iceland to document the herders as they collected their horses across the island’s remote terrain. During the summer months, the horses live a wild existence, grazing in the highlands and raising their young. Each fall, they are rounded up by local farmers and directed across the stunning landscape. This valued tradition is a social and cultural touchstone for both the farmers who own the horses and the city dwellers who travel to the countryside. The horse holds a precious place in Icelandic culture, art and tradition; for over 1,000 years Icelandic law has prohibited the importation of horses onto the island. By telling the story of this annual journey, Herd in Iceland captures the symbolism behind the horses and the nation they represent. Filmed from land and air, foot and hoof across the vast Icelandic landscape. Herd in Iceland takes you into a journey that is largely unknown but filled with meaning and beauty for those who sustain it.

Ratings and reviews

Beautifully shot story about people and horses in Iceland - Definitely an engaging look at a range of issues and also a wonderful portrait of a place I now want to visit after watching it!