Exploring the Vanishing Glaciers of Iceland Through the Lens of Director Sara Dosa

Overview of the Film 'Time and Water'

Anyone who has set foot in Iceland can feel the enchanting energy that radiates from its majestic landscapes and the warm-hearted people. Director Sara Dosa is an integral part of this community, bringing the beauty of nature into her work. As a documentary filmmaker, Dosa often immerses herself in outdoor settings, where she feels the powerful stories surrounding her. Her films consistently explore the relationship between the Earth’s landscapes and human experiences.

'Time and Water,' Dosa's latest film, focuses on the vanishing glaciers of Iceland and premiered at Sundance in January 2026. With a storyline centered on climate change and the shrinking glaciers, the documentary tells the story of the Magnason family, who have witnessed the transformation of their world.

A Journey Through Iceland

Director Dosa shares that her love for Iceland began in her childhood, drawn in by the music of renowned artists like Björk and Sigur Rós. "I felt it was magical to explore the landscapes here through photographs," she recalls. This passion led her to uncover untold stories about Iceland and its receding glaciers.

The film was primarily shot near Vatnajökull, one of Iceland's largest glaciers, once home to the Okjökull glacier. Through Dosa's perspective, audiences will witness the parallel lives of Andri Snær Magnason's grandparents and the disappearance of the Okjökull glacier, a vital part of their memories.

The Collaboration Between Dosa and Magnason

The collaboration between Dosa and Magnason is a significant highlight of the film's production. Magnason is not only an author but also an environmental activist. While working together on the film 'The Seer and the Unseen,' they engaged in deep conversations about culture, economic politics, and the environment. Magnason's unique ideas helped Dosa shape her approach to storytelling in the film.

In a 2019 article, Magnason wrote about bidding farewell to a glacier, which left a profound impression on Dosa. She decided to turn that article into a film, which became the inspiration for 'Time and Water' even before Magnason's book was published.

A Meaningful Message in the Film

'Time and Water' is not just a documentary; it’s a love letter to ancient glaciers. Through documentary footage of the Magnason grandparents’ lives and stunning visuals of the glaciers, the film provides a poignant look at the relationship between humans and nature, alongside fading memories.

Subtle sounds, like the movement of ice and clouds drifting across a blue sky, combined with simple yet emotional images of the Magnason grandparents, highlight the connection between people and their environment. The film continually affirms that glaciers are not just lifeless masses of ice but vibrant parts of Iceland's cultural landscape.

Challenging Weather Conditions

Iceland is known for its harsh weather and strong winds. Dosa explains that filming there requires meticulous preparation and close collaboration with local residents. "When the weather turns bad, we often think we've missed our chance, but our Icelandic friends guide us to wait a few minutes, and soon after, the weather changes, providing the perfect light for the necessary shots."

This illustrates that adaptability and respect for nature are crucial when working in a challenging environment like Iceland. Dosa shares that the power of nature and the strong winds truly excite and rejuvenate her.

Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers

If you’re planning a trip to Iceland, keep in mind that Vietnamese travelers need a Schengen visa to enter the country. A one-way flight from Hanoi (HAN) or Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Reykjavik can cost around 15 to 20 million VND, depending on when you book and the airline. The summer months from June to August are the ideal time to visit, when the weather is warm and the routes are favorable for exploring nature.

On a trip to Iceland, you can experience a diverse range of landscapes, from glaciers and volcanoes to hot springs. Be sure to pack warm clothing and good photography skills, as every corner of Iceland offers captivating photographic opportunities.

Finally, remember to check the weather conditions before your journey and always be prepared for sudden changes in weather during your exploration.

Article adapted from: Condé Nast Traveler