I wasn’t overly impressed with the narrative itself, though Emily Watson’s portrayal of "Bess" was undeniably powerful. Set on a secluded Scottish island, the story follows Bess as she prepares to marry oil rig worker “Jan” (Stellan Skarsgård). The community seems generally accepting of this union until Bess experiences the pain of his departure back to the rig. While longing for him, she frequently engages in conversations with God within their small church. During one such exchange, she pleads for his return. And he does—but after a devastating accident that leaves him completely unable to function. Bess is resolute in her commitment to care for him, but he persuades her that she should find another partner. She begins to believe that engaging in sexual activity will somehow improve his health, and predictably, she gives in to this belief as part of her effort to restore him. Katrin Cartridge ("Dodo") and Adrian Rawlins ("Dr. Richardson") offer solid supporting performances as the story explores a character who is loving, naive, and caring, ultimately reaching disturbing depths before arriving at an ending that I felt highlighted the story's harshness—and lack of believability. What are his true intentions toward his wife, whom he clearly loves? The film also delivers criticism of the supposedly benevolent actions of a local "wee-free" clergy whose behavior towards her near the conclusion is almost shameful. It prompts consideration of faith and medical practices, or at least their effectiveness, which I found frustratingly unrealistic. Miracles do occur, apparently, but here they were of the wrong sort! The film’s cinematography is striking and inventive, creating an intimate atmosphere largely due to Watson's excellent performance and a depiction of island life that feels both stifling and captivating—a testament to the director’s skill in eliciting thought.

Source on TMDB