Drifting Clouds (Aki Kaurismäki, 1996)

I'm in a Kaurismäki mood, or at least I'm anticipating that will be the case come the end of April. Either way, there's never a bad time to watch one of his films and discuss it in my opinion.

Please watch the film in advance of the discussion. Description below is from the Criterion Channel, where the film is currently streaming.

The chilly landscapes of Helsinki are warmed by the gentle humanism and wry humor of Aki Kaurismäki in the first installment of his FINLAND TRILOGY, a deadpan tale of everyday survival in the face of overwhelming obstacles. Misfortune begets misfortune when, in short order, Lauri (Kari Väänänen) loses his job as a tram driver and the restaurant where his wife, Ilona (Kati Outinen), works announces it is closing to make way for a chain. With few job prospects, the two find themselves facing a crisis that tests the strength of their bond.

https://www.criterionchannel.com/directed-by-aki-kaurismaki/season:1/videos/drifting-clouds