Golden Ophelia

One of those curios with two release dates, decades apart, and it is not surprising. The original (1974) was perhaps unworthy of release, and the contemporary (2023) version, whether re-edited or just dumped on the world, is no better.

A florist has had enough and wants to kill himself but finds he needs a permit. After applying, he meets a significant other and changes his mind, but police do not routinely allow cancellations, so he must seek an alternative solution.

I understand the source novel was set in a dystopian society, but this has opted for a 1974 Flanders location, so much of the storyline simply does not work. The central figure is supposed to be so jaded he wants to die, yet falls in love in minutes. He wants out of his business, yet is cross that it disappears so easily. The police, meant to be burdened down by pointless bureaucracy, just seem lazy. And an early charity-scam character appearance seems to be key but turns out to be an unnecessary cameo.

Sorry, but it doesn't gel. Too many half-realised storylines, irrelevant interactions, and long periods of pretty music but no progress.