Gnarr

Gnarr

Year: 2010

Runtime: 93 mins

Language: Icelandic

Director: Gaukur Úlfarsson

Documentary

Against the backdrop of Iceland’s 2008 banking collapse, recession and disillusionment, comedian Jon Gnarr created The Best Party as a satirical protest against failed politics. What began as a joke turned into a real campaign, parodying left‑right arrogance and offering Icelanders a new, irreverent alternative on election day.

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Timeline – Gnarr (2010)

Trace every key event in Gnarr (2010) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Economic Boom and Collapse

The developed world experienced a period of economic prosperity, leading bankers and stockbrokers to believe it would never end. However, this illusion was shattered as Iceland, showcasing its rise to prosperity, rapidly fell into bankruptcy following the global financial crisis. The country’s financial sector, once held in high regard, was suddenly exposed as corrupt, leading to arrests of the country's financial leaders.

A few years before the election Iceland
2

Volcanic Eruption Disrupts Life

Amidst the economic turmoil, Iceland's volcanic activity intensified, causing earthquakes and massive ash clouds that halted air traffic worldwide. This natural disaster worsened the country's already dire situation, symbolizing Iceland's descent from stability to chaos. The volcano's eruption became a stark metaphor for the country's upheaval.

During the crisis period Iceland
3

Political Instability and New Elections

With the country on its knees from financial collapse and natural disasters, Iceland's political landscape became unstable. A new election was called as the populace sought fresh leadership to recover from the chaos. Amid this turmoil, the foundation for a satirical political movement was laid.

During the crisis period Iceland
4

Birth of The Best Party

Jon Gnarr, Iceland's most cynical comedian, conceived The Best Party as a parody of the establishment, mocking political arrogance and false morality. Initially a joke, the party's simple and outrageous agenda aimed to fill key government positions with his friends and promote an incorruptible, drug-free parliament by 2020. The party embodied humor as a tool to challenge political corruption.

Early in the political upheaval Iceland
5

Campaigning Begins

The Best Party launched its election campaign, riding the wave of public disillusionment. The campaign received a lot of attention, with Gnarr promising a high-paying job and absolute power, claiming the election was a joke with a serious message. His unconventional style resonated with a populace desperate for change.

September 2010 Reykjavik, Iceland
6

Rising Popularity of The Best Party

Despite its origins as satire, The Best Party gained significant support, coming out on top in polls and becoming a symbol of disenfranchised citizens demanding change. Jon Gnarr's humorous yet bold promises struck a chord with voters tired of traditional politics. The movement's momentum became unstoppable as election day approached.

Leading up to September 18, 2010 Reykjavik, Iceland
7

Election Day Victory

On September 18, 2010, Jon Gnarr's The Best Party won the election, defying all expectations. Gnarr became the Mayor of Reykjavik, symbolizing a shift toward outsider politics and humorous resistance to the establishment. The victory was a surprising yet uplifting response to Iceland’s political and economic chaos.

September 18, 2010 Reykjavik, Iceland
8

Gnarr’s Leadership and Impact

Following his electoral victory, Jon Gnarr implemented his unconventional approach to leadership, filling government roles with close friends. His victory brought a message of hope and humor, illustrating that even in times of disaster, heroes can emerge from unlikely places. The people embraced a new and unconventional voice in politics.

After September 18, 2010 Reykjavik, Iceland
9

Cultural and Political Change

Gnarr’s presidency challenged traditional notions of leadership, emphasizing honesty, humor, and anti-corruption. The campaign's success demonstrated the power of satire and public disenchantment with established politics. His commitment to watching 'The Wire' became a symbol of his unconventional approach and outsider status.

Post-election period Reykjavik, Iceland
10

Hope and Resilience in Adversity

The film ends on an uplifting note, illustrating that even in a crisis, laughter and satire can foster hope. Iceland’s unexpected political shift highlights how extraordinary heroes can emerge from disasters. The story promotes resilience, humor, and the idea that tough times can lead to positive change.

At the conclusion of the story Iceland

Last Updated: August 19, 2025 at 05:15

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Explore Movie Threads

Discover curated groups of movies connected by mood, themes, and story style. Browse collections built around emotion, atmosphere, and narrative focus to easily find films that match what you feel like watching right now.

Political Satire Movies Like Gnarr

Stories that use comedy and satire to challenge political systems and inspire hope.Explore movies like Gnarr that use sharp political satire and humor to critique the system. If you enjoyed the story of a comedian's unlikely campaign, you'll find similar irreverent and uplifting stories about using laughter as a tool for change.

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Narrative Summary

Narratives in this thread often follow an underdog or outsider who enters the political arena with a satirical approach. Starting as a joke or protest, their campaign gains unexpected momentum, revealing truths about the established order and offering a hopeful, alternative vision. The journey typically moves from cynicism to a resilient, community-driven optimism.

Why These Movies?

These movies are grouped by their unique blend of sharp political critique with uplifting humor. They share a tone that balances disillusionment with hope, a steady pacing that builds a real-world campaign, and a core belief that laughter and irreverence can be powerful agents of change.

Movies About Hope in Crisis Like Gnarr

Stories of resilience and community that emerge from economic or social disasters.Discover films similar to Gnarr that explore hope and resilience during times of societal collapse. If you liked seeing a positive story emerge from Iceland's economic crisis, you'll appreciate these movies about communities and individuals finding light in the darkness.

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Narrative Summary

The narrative pattern begins with a profound societal crisis that causes widespread disillusionment. The story then shifts focus to the unexpected, often grassroots responses that challenge the status quo. The arc follows characters who, instead of succumbing to despair, find new purpose and build hopeful alternatives, leading to a redemptive or happy conclusion.

Why These Movies?

These films share a specific emotional mix: they acknowledge the gravity of a systemic failure but prioritize a hopeful and uplifting tone. They balance medium emotional weight with a steady, character-driven pace, ultimately leaving the viewer with a sense of resilience and the possibility of positive change.

Unlock the Full Story of Gnarr

Don't stop at just watching — explore Gnarr in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what Gnarr is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

Gnarr Summary

Read a complete plot summary of Gnarr, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

Gnarr Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in Gnarr

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape Gnarr. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in Gnarr

Gnarr Spoiler-Free Summary

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Gnarr Spoiler-Free Summary

More About Gnarr

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