No. 60 (2021) HOPE (Hap) Palace; Scandinavian Film Festival JULY 25th.

 

Film No. 60 (2021)  July 25th.  1:30 PM  PALACE Cinema 3,  Raine Square,  Perth City. 

"I often say you should give children 10% more hope than you have yourself."(Anja's consulting surgeon discusses techniques for breaking bad news to family).

HAP is all about the "B's" of cinema. Brilliant but Brutal. So be warned. Many people have existed in the 9 day vigil Anja (Andrea Braein Hovig) and Tomas (Stellan Skarsgard) take us on in this 'life is so fragile' journey. Director Maria Solahl gave us Sonia in LIMBO ten years ago, a Scandinavian woman having to adapt to a new culture (West Indian). Now she introduces us to Anja a woman suddenly faced with her mortality.

The stark naturalism Solahl uses to take us into Anja and Tomas's world gives us a depth about how much family means to them both. But mostly we get to experience the fear that comes with a dire prognosis, that of brain tumour growing in Anja. In these nine days, we learn of Anja's prior concern about her health. Her diagnosis just reinforced her fear. Then there is a proposal put to her by husband Tomas. A proposal that only goes to heighten her anxiety. 

This film belongs to Hovig. She commands our attention for the full two hours. Nine days compacted (chapter like) into 120 minutes over a Christmas into New Year, heightens the emotion for the characters and audience alike. Imagine nine defining days in ones life where so many unresolved issues loom. The fear of facing the truth about, mainly family matters, which fade to zero compared to facing death. 

I write this post as a critic who appreciates true power when a strong theme with a message appears on screen. I've not been faced with a crisis like Anja's. I never want to, but so many brave people have. Please be warned this film could not be recommended as entertainment. But then again, there may be a few who will find the themes and how well they are depicted partially therapeutic. I'll leave it with you.  10GUMS.