A Moment in the Reeds ( 2017 )

A Moment in the Reeds: A Deep Dive into Identity, Belonging, and Connection

A Moment in the Reeds, a 2017 Finnish-British romantic drama directed by Mikko Mäkelä, offers a poignant exploration of identity, belonging, and the enduring power of human connection. The film delicately portrays the burgeoning relationship between Leevi, a young Finn returning home to help his estranged father renovate their family lake house, and Tareq, a Syrian asylum seeker hired to assist with the project. Through subtle performances and evocative cinematography, A Moment in the Reeds transcends the typical romance narrative to delve into deeper themes of cultural displacement, familial reconciliation, and the courage to embrace one's true self.

Synopsis

Leevi, a young architect living in Paris, returns to his family's summer cottage in rural Finland. He is tasked with helping his father, Jouko, renovate the property for sale. Burdened by unspoken tensions and the weight of familial expectations, Leevi finds the task a far cry from his life in the city. Jouko, a stoic and somewhat distant man, hires Tareq, a Syrian refugee seeking asylum in Finland, to assist with the renovations. Leevi initially bristles at Tareq's presence, viewing him as another burden. However, as they work together in the secluded Finnish landscape, a connection begins to form between them. This connection quickly evolves into a passionate and intimate relationship. The film follows their journey as they navigate their growing feelings for each other against the backdrop of Leevi's family issues and Tareq's precarious situation as an asylum seeker. The isolated setting allows them to be vulnerable and authentic, away from the judgmental eyes of society. However, their idyll is inevitably threatened by the realities of their lives and the looming sale of the lake house.

Themes

A Moment in the Reeds resonates with audiences due to its thoughtful exploration of several key themes:

• Identity and Self-Discovery: Leevi grapples with his sexual identity and his relationship with his family. Returning to his childhood home forces him to confront the expectations placed upon him and the person he feels he needs to be versus who he truly is. Tareq, on the other hand, is dealing with the trauma of displacement and the struggle to redefine his identity in a new country. Both characters are on journeys of self-discovery, finding solace and understanding in each other.
• Belonging and Displacement: Tareq's experience as an asylum seeker highlights the challenges of finding belonging in a foreign land. He yearns for a place to call home and struggles with the uncertainty of his future. Leevi, despite being in his native Finland, also feels a sense of displacement, caught between his urban life in Paris and the rural expectations of his family. The film explores the universal human need for connection and belonging, regardless of nationality or circumstance.
• Family and Reconciliation: The strained relationship between Leevi and Jouko forms a significant subplot. The film subtly portrays the difficulties of communication between father and son, highlighting the generational differences and unspoken emotions that often plague familial relationships. While not explicitly resolved, the film suggests a possibility for future reconciliation, emphasizing the importance of understanding and empathy.
• The Power of Connection: Despite their different backgrounds and circumstances, Leevi and Tareq find solace and connection in each other. Their relationship transcends cultural and linguistic barriers, demonstrating the power of human connection to heal wounds and provide support. The film suggests that genuine connection can be found in unexpected places and can be transformative for those involved.
• Sexuality and Acceptance: Leevi's struggle with his sexuality is central to the narrative. He has kept his true self hidden from his family, fearing their judgment. His relationship with Tareq allows him to embrace his identity and find acceptance, at least temporarily. The film implicitly criticizes societal pressures that force individuals to suppress their true selves.

Characters

The film's success lies in its well-developed and relatable characters:

Cinematography and Setting

The film's cinematography beautifully captures the serene beauty of the Finnish landscape. The isolation and tranquility of the lake house setting create a sense of intimacy and allow the characters to connect on a deeper level. The long, lingering shots of the natural world reflect the characters' internal struggles and their search for peace. The changing seasons mirror the evolving nature of their relationship, from the tentative beginnings to the inevitable parting.

The setting itself acts as a character. The secluded lake house, nestled amidst the reeds, becomes a sanctuary for Leevi and Tareq. It provides a temporary escape from the pressures of the outside world, allowing them to be vulnerable and authentic. The vastness of the Finnish landscape emphasizes their isolation but also offers a sense of freedom and possibility.

Director's Vision and Style

Mikko Mäkelä's directorial vision is evident in the film's subtle and nuanced approach. He avoids melodrama and instead focuses on creating a realistic and intimate portrayal of the characters' experiences. The film's pacing is deliberate, allowing the audience to fully immerse themselves in the characters' emotions and the beauty of the setting. Mäkelä's use of natural light and authentic dialogue adds to the film's realism and emotional impact.

His style is characterized by:

• Minimalist Dialogue: The film relies more on visual storytelling and subtle performances than on lengthy dialogue. This allows the audience to interpret the characters' emotions and motivations based on their actions and expressions.
• Focus on Naturalism: The film avoids overly stylized shots or artificial lighting. The emphasis is on capturing the natural beauty of the Finnish landscape and the raw emotions of the characters.
• Subtle Storytelling: The film avoids explicit exposition and instead allows the story to unfold gradually through subtle interactions and symbolic imagery.

Reception and Impact

A Moment in the Reeds has been well-received by critics and audiences alike. It has been praised for its sensitive portrayal of LGBTQ+ issues, its exploration of cultural displacement, and its beautiful cinematography. The film has won several awards at international film festivals, including the Best Film award at the Turin LGBTQ Film Festival.

The film's impact lies in its ability to humanize the refugee experience and to promote empathy and understanding. By focusing on the personal connection between Leevi and Tareq, the film challenges viewers to see beyond stereotypes and to recognize the shared humanity that connects us all.

Furthermore, the film contributes to greater representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in cinema, particularly within a specific cultural context. By portraying a same-sex relationship in a natural and non-sensationalized manner, the film helps to normalize LGBTQ+ experiences and to promote greater acceptance and understanding.

Comparison to Other Films

While unique in its specific setting and cultural context, A Moment in the Reeds shares thematic similarities with other films that explore themes of identity, belonging, and cross-cultural relationships. Here's a brief comparison:

However, A Moment in the Reeds distinguishes itself through its specific focus on the experiences of a Finnish man and a Syrian refugee, offering a unique perspective on cultural integration and the challenges faced by asylum seekers in Europe.

Conclusion

A Moment in the Reeds is a beautifully crafted and emotionally resonant film that explores universal themes of identity, belonging, and connection. Through its subtle performances, evocative cinematography, and thoughtful storytelling, the film invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences of love, loss, and the search for meaning. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and the courage to embrace one's true self. The film's lasting impact lies in its ability to humanize complex issues and to promote a more compassionate and inclusive world. It is a must-see for anyone interested in films that explore the complexities of human relationships and the search for identity in a globalized world.