Under the Glacier (1989): cast, story & where to watch
1989 · Film · ★ 6.2

Released in 1989, Under the Glacier is a comedy and fantasy film directed by Guðný Halldórsdóttir, running about 91 minutes.
What it’s about. Our hero is Umbi (an acronym for emissary of the bishop), sent by him to undertake an important investigation at Snæfell-glacier. In particular he is to look into the conduct and behavior of Jón Prímus, the old pastor at Snæfell. Fantastic rumors are rife: amongst other things it is said that a corpse is lodged in the glacier! Armed with his tape recorder and notebook, Umbi embarks upon his mission. He tries to question the weird locals, a weird lot, but gets evasive answers. Slowly he is dragged into a quagmire of strange happenings and his efforts to understand only make him confused. If at the beginning he is a chipper, a mere device, by the end of the story he is inextricably involved, a committed participant in the bizarre events.
Who’s in it. Under the Glacier stars Sigurður Sigurjónsson as Umbi, Baldvin Halldórsson as Séra Jón Prímus, Margrét Helga Jóhannsdóttir as Úa and Kristbjörg Kjeld as Hnallþóra, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 6.2/10, Under the Glacier has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Under the Glacier page.
If you liked it. Fans of Under the Glacier tend to enjoy Forrest Gump, Parasite, Life Is Beautiful and Fight Club.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Under the Glacier (1989)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for Under the Glacier change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is Under the Glacier worth watching?
- Under the Glacier holds an audience score of 6.2 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy comedy and fantasy. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in Under the Glacier?
- Under the Glacier stars Sigurður Sigurjónsson, Baldvin Halldórsson, Margrét Helga Jóhannsdóttir, Kristbjörg Kjeld and Helgi Skúlason.
- When was Under the Glacier released?
- Under the Glacier was released in 1989, with a runtime of about 91 minutes.
