 | | | Photo provided | | | | | | It is not by chance that Anne Grethe Bjarup Riis' movie, "This Life," was a big success in Denmark, its country of origin. The director shows a piece of that country's history at a time when the younger generation is asking questions and wants to understand what happened during World War II. But it also has universal appeal, telling how a handful of people can make a difference, and the consequences, good and bad, of personal engagement. It also touches the heart because it talks of family, of loyalty, and of the often understated and misconstrued role women played in this major conflict.
The movie that will play at the Orinda Theatre in early April tells the story of a Danish family that revolts against the German invasion of their country in 1939. As part of a close-knit community, the Fiils have a large extended family and own a beautiful inn. The movie begins with the women cooking in the kitchen for the 25th wedding anniversary of owner Marius Fiil and his wife Gudrun. The war has not really reached this northern region of Denmark yet, and while it is clear the government has decided to collaborate with the invader, Danish laws are still in place.
During the dinner and party that ensues, a fracture begins between the guests: some think that the government's decision was cowardly, while others defend the Germans, believing they will protect the Danes against communism. Shortly after, the Fiils have to make a choice when they are asked to help organize the parachuting in of both people and equipment coming from England. The decision has life and death consequences for everyone, and their values are tested to an extent they could not have imagined.
Bjarup Riis shows how good people can be crushed by the pitiless juggernaut of history.
At the center of the movie is the couple: Marius (Jens Jorn Spottag) and Gudrun (Bodil Jorgensen). As the head of the household, when help is sought, people talk to Marius; but when asked for his decision, he says he has to talk to his wife, first. Gudrun is the relentless worker, the hinge on which the family revolves. Soft spoken, gentle and strong, she is a moral compass. The Fiils have sons and daughters, including the fiery Gerda who cannot be kept at home when others go out and fight.
The characters shine with humanity and an honest love for each other. The title alerts viewers that not all of the characters survive the ordeal, and that certainty creates an unnerving tension as the movie approaches its denouement. But there are also many light and fun moments in the movie, just like life itself.
The dominant visual tones in the film are very warm and a bit subdued. "This Life" is solid, much like the people featured in the film who became reluctant heroes.
"This Life" is will be shown at the Orinda Theatre as part of the International Film Showcase April 4-11. For more information, visit internationalshowcase.org.
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Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA