Lights in the Dusk

About This Movie

Lights in the Dusk is a real gem from Aki Kaurismäki, blending deadpan humor with a kind of melancholy that seeps through. It’s a slow burn, but that’s part of its charm. The pacing feels deliberate, almost like a lullaby, while the atmosphere is saturated with the bleakness of isolation. You’ve got this unusual mix of comedy and drama, where Koistinen, the lonely guard, navigates a world that feels both absurd and depressing. The performances are understated, especially the way Kaurismäki captures the nuances of human connection—or lack thereof. Plus, the practical settings in that glitzy shopping mall create a striking contrast with Koistinen’s mundane existence. It’s not flashy, but it’s rich in its simplicity and depth.

Unique blend of comedy and drama · Slow pacing enhances the themes of isolation · Practical effects enhance the film's atmosphere