Ráðherrann

Ólafur Darri Ólafsson is just splendid, so different from his role in Ófærð where he was excelling too... And so many things to ponder or and over in relation to politics, including - should a top politician be mentally challenged for showing empathy and seeing a bigger picture? How to you intend to change things if there is a fierce competition for fame and power?

And again - beautiful Icelandic nature is a fine supporting cast.

It is a must watch, unless you hate politics and/or no nothing about Nordic mentality.

If you were a fan of TV series, 'Borgen' - I believe you will enjoy 'The Minister'. Writing, directing, acting, scenery, photography wonderfully capture the essence of the person vs. the politician as well as provide a travel log of Iceland and insight into local / EU politics.

This started OK mainly because Olafur Darri Olafsson is always watchable. But it became disappointing and almost laughable especially the manoeuverings of the various members of parliament. Constantly double crossing each other and when the ploy is revealed they don't even change their facial expression. Then five minutes later, they'll be getting into bed with the person who just double crossed them. As for the wife, despicable! A terrible actor and repellent character. Exactly the same frozen expressionless face for two whole seasons! I almost turned it off every time she came on screen. Best scenes by far are those during the manic episode. These were enjoyable and give a compassionate insight into the disease. 3 stars out of 10.

Ráðherrann aka The Minister This engrossing 8 part political drama from Iceland has all that one has come to expect from this country.

Ólafur Darri Ólafsson is quite superb as the eponymous character (Benedikt), the newly elected Prime Minister of Iceland.

The problem is that he is bipolar, a hereditary disease he has inherited from his mother who as a result committed suicide when he was young.

What unfolds is a thoughtful drama about not only the illness but also the was the way Benedikt sees through the politics and makes decisions which are more logical to his mind, despite being against his party's politics and in some cases law.

If it can't be done, make up a new law!

The viewer is behind Benedikt for the most part, but the last couple of episodes sees a shift in this view.

Behind the scenes, the party politics is as you would expect, all self serving manipulation towards personal gain, so nobody really has he countries' or Benedikt's interests at heart, just their own. No change there!

The supporting cast is very strong. Where do they find so many good actors in such a small country?

9.5 stars. Outstanding at every level. Ólafur Darri Ólafsson delivers a brilliant absolute tour de force performance breathtaking in alacrity and range. Don't miss the opportunity to see this production.