Death Is a Problem for the Living

Set in the picturesque Finnish landscape, Death Is a Problem for the Living is a poignant and darkly comedic tale of two men, Risto Kivi and Arto Niska, who find themselves at a crossroads in their lives. Played by Samuli Edelmann and Jesper Salonen respectively, the duo forms the core of a fascinating narrative that delves into themes of friendship, loyalty, and the human condition. Risto Kivi, portrayed by Samuli Edelmann, is a complex and multifaceted character – a lovable rogue with a penchant for cheating at cards and a general lack of direction in life. His partner in crime, Arto Niska, played by Jesper Salonen, is an enigmatic figure, with an IQ that is drastically lower than average. Despite his intellectual deficiencies, Arto possesses a level of innocence and good-naturedness that makes him endearing to audiences. As the story unfolds, it becomes apparent that Risto and Arto have become mired in a series of unfortunate events. Their hearse business, a venture that promised to send them into the laps of luxury, has imploded, leaving them with next to nothing. To make matters worse, their personal lives are in shambles – Risto's marriage is crumbling, and he owes a substantial debt to a shady loan shark. Determined to turn their fortunes around, Risto and Arto hatch a plan to start anew in a small Finnish town. Despite the odds stacked against them, they embark on a journey to create a fresh start, to escape the mistakes of the past, and to build a brighter future. However, as they navigate their way through the challenges of small-town Finland, the duo is faced with a series of absurd and often hilarious obstacles. From their inept attempts to obtain residency in their new town to their disastrous encounters with the locals, Risto and Arto's journey is a rollercoaster ride of laughter, tears, and empathy. At the heart of the film lies a nuanced exploration of the complexities of male friendship. Risto and Arto's relationship is a testament to the power of loyalty and camaraderie. Despite their differences, they are united by a deep affection and trust, which proves to be the bedrock upon which they construct their new lives. Death Is a Problem for the Living also sheds light on the harsh realities of life in rural Finland. The film presents a scathing critique of the country's economic and social conditions, highlighting the difficulties faced by those living on the fringes of society. By doing so, it provides a searing portrayal of a country struggling to come to terms with the consequences of economic hardship and isolation. Visually, the film is a stunning representation of Finland's breathtaking landscapes. From the swirling mists of the countryside to the rugged beauty of the Arctic Circle, the cinematography is breathtaking, providing a poignant counterpoint to the narrative's often dark themes. The cast delivers a series of memorable performances, capturing the nuances of their characters with depth and authenticity. Samuli Edelmann brings a level of warmth and vulnerability to Risto, making his character one of the most empathetic and relatable on-screen protagonists in recent memory. Meanwhile, Jesper Salonen's portrayal of Arto is nothing short of impressive, providing a captivating and often hilarious performance that adds a layer of complexity to the film's narrative. Death Is a Problem for the Living is a triumph of Finnish cinema, a poignant and absorbing film that will linger long after the credits have rolled. With its nuanced portrayal of male friendship, its searing critique of small-town life, and its breathtaking cinematography, this is a film that will captivate audiences with its raw emotion and unflinching honesty.