There are films that narrate rags to riches stories, films that inspire through one’s journey, stories of broken dreams and lives unseen. But the Finnish film Death is a Problem for the Living is a story of life as it is, of survival, and a close study of how human relationships evolve with the test of time.
Directed by Teemu Nikki, the dark comedy follows the life of neighbours Risto (played by Pekka Strang) and Arto (Jari Virman), the two least-expensive hearse drivers on the market, whose lives are collapsing. One is a gambling addict, and the latter finds out that he is born with 85 per cent less brain than an average person.
With their respective marriages in shambles, they move out and take on the job of carrying the bodies of the victims of Russian Roulette, a lethal game of chance wherein the player holds the gun to their heads and pulls the trigger. The revolver, with a single round, may go off anytime, killing the player.
The film is a commentary on how poverty can push one into extreme situations wherein the fittest survive. However, above all, the film is a beautiful projection of the bond between Arto and Risto, who find solace in each other’s company amid the chaos in their lives. Their bond becomes the silver lining in their dark, lonely lives. All is well until they find themselves sitting across from each other, playing Russian Roulette doubles.
Beyond the borders of Finland, the film appeals to a global audience—its climax stunning the audience with the unexpected turn of events and the story travels with the audience long after they leave the theatre.
The film premiered at Instituto Cervantes in New Delhi as part of the 29th European Union Film Festival, which is on till November 16. The film had also premiered at the Rome Film Festival in October last year after its release.
The Palme d’Or-nominated Italian film La Chimera opened the film festival, which was inaugurated by the EU Ambassador to India, Herve Delphin.
Title: Death is a Problem for the Living / Peluri - Kuolema on elävien ongelma (Finnish)
Director: Teemu Nikki
Cast: Pekka Strang, Jari Virman, Elina Knihtilä