Ulkoavain

Ulkoavain is a 2016 Finnish thriller film directed by Aki Kaurismäki. The title translates to "Outer Key" in English. The movie follows the story of Martti Korhonen, an elderly handyman, and his relationship with the small community in a remote town. A devastating incident in their past begins to surface as his granddaughter Jenni returns to the town.

The film marks a departure from Kaurismäki's characteristic deadpan humor, instead presenting a more somber and introspective portrayal of the characters. It explores themes of loneliness, small-town life, and the complexities of human relationships. Ulkoavain features a predominantly silent dialogue, using pantomime and music to convey emotions and plot developments.

Visually, the film employs a naturalistic aesthetic, emphasizing the desolate beauty of the Finnish landscape. Kaurismäki's direction pays close attention to the interactions between characters and their surroundings, giving the audience insight into their emotional states.

Reception to Ulkoavain has been mixed. Some reviewers praised the film's original storytelling and the thoughtful characterization, while others found the tone too dark and the lack of dialogue jarring. In spite of this, Ulkoavain has garnered attention for its thoughtful take on Finland's small-town life and has gone on to be screened at several international film festivals. The film marked a distinct departure for Kaurismäki, showcasing his versatility as a director and challenging the traditional expectations of his work.