Fallen Leaves, a movie that you must follow on Spotify!

When I began writing this article, I found myself wondering what I liked most about the film. Upon reflection, I decided that the colors were the most striking aspect. The muted hues perfectly capture the essence of Helsinki, instilling a sense of coolness upon the viewer within minutes of the film’s start. However, I ultimately concluded that it was the music that resonated with me the most. Fallen Leaves is the last year’s second film I have added to my Spotify playlist after watching it, following Wim Wenders’ masterpiece, Perfect Days. Kaurismäki’s music selection for this film is so captivating that it makes you end up with Shazam search and adding to your Spotify playlist. As one immerses oneself in the film’s soundtrack, it feels as though doors to a jukebox of 20th-century music are being opened, potentially leading to endless repeat listens — provided one appreciates playful melodies.

This reflection on playfulness reminded me of Kaurismäki’s storytelling approach, which is equally unique and engaging. His one-line narratives have a remarkable ability to hook the audience, drawing them into the film’s simple yet captivating tale. Kaurismäki’s cinema is minimalist, devoid of excessive busyness while still retaining its essence. This minimalist approach extends from the straightforward romantic narrative to the carefully composed frames that portrays his signature style. The film’s story, though devoid of complexity, is nonetheless beautiful — literally, as it evokes a sense of beauty within the viewer. Fallen Leaves is a dark humor that simultaneously tugs at the heartstrings and brings a familiar smile to the face. It is a film of a shorter duration than most feature-length movies (his style again), leaving a lingering impact as it concludes.

The film explores themes of loneliness and love, particularly the deep and silent kind. While the film’s time setting is ambiguous, the shadow of the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine lingers throughout. However, the film’s narrative remains largely devoid of technology, allowing for a stark and poignant portrayal of human loneliness. Fallen Leaves strongly resembles On Body and Soul, a film that I initially found unappealing. Yet, Fallen Leaves has captivated me, leaving me eager to rewatch it multiple times, focusing on different aspects each time — the music, the visuals, or the narrative — though I recognize that the film’s impact is immediate and profound. In less than an hour and a half, Fallen Leaves lights a warm candle in the darks depths of one’s heart, leaving an inerasable mark.

Maryam TAHMASEBI 16 jan 2024