Fallen Leaves

Two people living lonely lives in Helsinki meet in a karaoke bar and try to connect as news reports focus on Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Fallen Leaves is dour as a romantic comedy, but the severe deadpan style does somehow illuminate the absurdity of everyday life. The film is slight in terms of plot and action - even the runtime is short compared to contemporary efforts - but being understated in presentation in no way undermines the impact of the droll story. Small events are significant for the characters and memorable for audiences partly because of the austerity of the director's work. Leaves don't fall but fly.

Limited Release 14th February 2024
Palace Entertainment 81 mins