So much average

Simply A Masterpiece

At first rather annoying in its heavy emphasis on reenactments, this movie ultimately proves fascinating, simply because the complicated, highly dramatic tale it tells still almost defies belief.

The film may be flawed, but its message is not.

Inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's "Little Mermaid", "I was a Swiss Banker" is a light-hearted gem of a summer movie. The story, set in an enchanted version of present-day Switzerland, is a lot less sombre than the fairy tale it is loosely based on. The prince is a clumsy banker, portrayed with childlike charm by Beat Marti. The mermaid (Laura Drasbæk) is a sexy diver, complete with weight belt, fishnet top and knife. The evil witch (Anne-Grethe Bjarup Riis) turns out to be not so evil after all, and a lot less powerful than Andersen's sea witch. Spectacular shots of the breathtaking Swiss scenery and weather are the heartbeat of this movie, a structural technique that is emerging as Imbach's trademark. Lakes are to "I was a Swiss Banker" what the mountains are to "Lenz". Arrive early and stay for the credits.