Review of Lights in the Dusk (2006) by Derek B — 06 Oct 2009
Several months in the life of the world's most unhappy man (seemingly)... but with some comedic undertones typical of Aki Kaurismaki's films. These are mostly achieved through undercutting cinematic conventions.
The absolutely key scene of this kind is where the antihero Koustinen (probably spelled wrongly) berates a ruffian in a bar about his cruelty to his dog. The ruffian and his two sidekicks are pleased to be able to offer to "discuss" the matter outside.
There is clearly then a short but bloody scuffle, none of which we see because the camera continues to focus on the back door of the bar. Another key scene is a very brief sequence from Koustinen's year in prison: for a brief flicker there is a broad smile on his face.
.. the only time in the film in which his deadpan and stoical face changes at all. This is quite hard-going because it is so low-key and unexciting, but really that is the whole point.
This review of Lights in the Dusk (2006) was written by Derek B on 06 Oct 2009.
Lights in the Dusk has generally received positive reviews.
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