Review of Lights in the Dusk (2006) by Steve W — 13 Oct 2007
Kaurismäki's latest film, though nothing new, still seems surprisingly fresh to say that to the casual observer Kaurismäki has revisted this film several times.
To the ignorant that would be true, but it's the subtle differences that keep Kaurismäki's films worth watching again and again. His form of Miserablism is the best around and if you're looking for films that have GENUINE soul and give a true rendition of the anti-hero, look no further.
Kaurismäki has a sensational way of choosing characters that both have looks that suggest their like lost puppies and yet they have a streak of intelligence within them despite their endevours and often careers, and Janne Hyytiäinen is another to add to the list. As the night watchmen of a Helsinki department store, he is encapsulated by a strangely attractive woman (another Kaurismäki trait), which leads to some interesting developments to say the least.
As with all Kaurismäki films, the length is refreshingly short. This doesn't leave you with the feeling that you're not getting value, but more the feeling that all the fat has been cut (if there indeed was any from this genius director), and that the good stuff is all that was left.
Consider this one of Kaurismäki's finer steaks.
This review of Lights in the Dusk (2006) was written by Steve W on 13 Oct 2007.
Lights in the Dusk has generally received positive reviews.
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