Sat Sept 13 @ 3.15 PM- TIFF Bell Lightbox 2
A Swedish comedy that is a series of comic vignettes done in one single, long take of a stationary locked off camera. This may not sound like fun on paper, but there’s charm to this film that has to be experienced for oneself. Director Roy Andersson’s deep focus, wide angle compositions allow for a rare thing in cinema these days-an opportunity to look at a beautifully photographed scene and explore the frame with the eye and see all the detail at leisure.
This film features many odd characters who interact with one another throughout, including a pair of middle aged, novelty item salesmen who want to make people have fun with their product line of false vampire teeth and laugh bags. One scene featuring a barmaid who serenades the entire room of a tavern with lyrics that announce her willingness to trade shots from the bar in exchange for kisses was so completely unexpected and original it put a big smile and almost had me singing along.
This is one of the most unique films playing at the festival right now and a great escape from the more serious and heavier offerings. I’ll bet many will be surprised with how much they like it, the audience I saw it with seemed quite amused by it and I highly recommend it to those looking for something different.
