Finnish stars Alma Pöysti and Jussi Vatanen have been on an exhilarating journey across America, promoting their latest film 'Fallen Leaves' and basking in the limelight of Hollywood's awards season. The tragicomic romance directed by Aki Kaurismäki has garnered critical acclaim and captured the hearts of audiences worldwide.
In a recent joint interview, Pöysti and Vatanen expressed their overwhelming experience during this whirlwind tour. They attended prestigious events such as the Golden Globe Awards, where they were nominated, and received the thrilling news that the National Society of Film Critics named 'Fallen Leaves' the best non-English-language film of the year. Amidst their busy schedule, they also managed to squeeze in a screening in San Francisco before returning to Los Angeles for the Governors Awards.
The film tells the story of Ansa and Holappa, two lonely individuals in working-class Helsinki who meet at a karaoke bar and navigate the challenges of forming a romantic connection. With its deadpan charm and universal themes of missed connections and middle-age solitude, 'Fallen Leaves' has resonated with audiences across cultures, shining a spotlight on Kaurismäki's distinct filmmaking style. The director himself shies away from the press and the spotlight, leaving it to the actors to represent the film.
For Pöysti and Vatanen, being ambassadors for 'Fallen Leaves' is not a chore but a privilege. Vatanen recognizes the joy and hope the film brings to people's lives and considers it an honor to be part of that experience. Pöysti admits her slight jealousy towards those discovering Kaurismäki's distinct humor and deep humanism through the film, noting that his ability to transcend language and cultural barriers is a true gift.
Fortunately, accessing Kaurismäki's films is easier than ever, thanks to The Criterion Channel, which currently streams 15 of his movies. This includes the so-called proletariat trilogy, in which 'Fallen Leaves' seamlessly fits, as well as other notable works like 'Le Havre' and 'The Other Side of Hope.' Starting January 19, 'Fallen Leaves' will also be available for streaming on MUBI.
Both Pöysti and Vatanen grew up under Kaurismäki's influence and deeply appreciate the culture of film appreciation he fostered in Finland through festivals and theaters. The opportunity to work with him in one of his films was a dream come true for both actors, solidifying Kaurismäki's status as the maestro of Finnish cinema.
'Fallen Leaves' stays true to its roots as a film lover's film, featuring references to directors like Jim Jarmusch, David Lean, and Charlie Chaplin. Even on set, the movie quiz continued with Kaurismäki's unrivaled film knowledge. Pöysti mentioned passionate debates about the selection of movie posters, demonstrating Kaurismäki's meticulous attention to detail.
Having been on the road with 'Fallen Leaves' for almost a year, starting from its debut at Cannes Film Festival to its worldwide theatrical releases and now with the excitement of Oscar season, Pöysti and Vatanen prefer to focus on the film itself rather than the possibility of award nominations. Pöysti describes 'Fallen Leaves' as a story that offers more salt than a sugary love story — a tale of rough lives that find solace in humor and simple humanity.
One unique aspect of the film is the characters' reluctance to ask each other for their names, reflecting Finland's reputation as 'the silent bunch of Europeans.' For Pöysti and Vatanen, this approach adds a layer of vulnerability and mystery to the characters' interactions, making the audience work to earn their trust.
Throughout their journey, Pöysti and Vatanen have been touched by the reactions of audiences worldwide and the sense of hope the film leaves behind. Pöysti admires the simplicity of the love story and its ability to touch people through its relatable emotions and humanity.
Amidst their busy schedule, Pöysti and Vatanen found a moment of downtime, during which they indulged in their love for cinema by attending a retrospective screening of Robert Altman's 'The Long Goodbye' at the New Beverly Cinema. Even there, in the land of movie stars, they experienced the surprise of being recognized and approached by enthusiastic moviegoers eager to discuss Kaurismäki and 'Fallen Leaves.'
As their journey through America comes to a close, Pöysti and Vatanen can reflect on the overwhelming reception for 'Fallen Leaves' and the joy of being part of a film that brings people together, transcending cultural barriers and leaving audiences hopeful for love and connection.
