Review of The Man Without a Past (2002) by Anniken Marie J — 27 Jan 2008
A beautiful and quiet movie about a guy who is beaten in a park in Helsinki right after getting off a train. He does not remember his name, or know anything about his past. But instead of going on a crusade to discover his true identity, he simply goes with the flow of life - He finds new friends and a new life in meeting with Gods soldiers on earth - the Salvation Army.
He also find love. It's compelling how he embraces his new life. The film is full of warmth and hope. It's basically about taking new chances that are being given to us and develope a new life while leaving the old one behind.
During the film there is a lack of any type of facial expressions or emotions of the characters, even when they are speaking to each other. The dialogue is slow and serious and there is not much action involved - Typical finnish maybe, and with lots of the black humour of Kaurism�¤k.
I'd say it's among the best work in his already long career as a film director.
This review of The Man Without a Past (2002) was written by Anniken Marie J on 27 Jan 2008.
The Man Without a Past has generally received very positive reviews.
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