donniegreenfix

It's been so long since I first saw this movie I can't recall if it initially was slow and tedious (before the shocking full story is revealed)or if some of the movies few lacking qualities are bothersome or not. What I do know is I continue to enjoy this heart warming movie every few years and its one of my favorites! I do know that since my second viewing the message of generosity towards deserving people is so powerful throughout that any of this flicks shortcomings are so overshadowed to me they're irrelevant. I was very surprised to see how the critics universally poo pooed it. Shocked really, to the point I'm convinced that after a couple prominent critics early on slamed it, the subsequent poo pooers were afraid to admit they were touched and cried. It became a domino effect of "monkey see, monkey do". Just a bunch of monkeys pooing on a great movie.

After watching this movie, I was so entertained and so impressed, I was planning on only watching Swedish film from here on out. Then I found here the Swedish critic that offers an alternate review in English and was very bummed to read, that in his opinion Swedish film sucks... but this one was OK. I had been hoping that in style, class and content this movie was reflective of an entire nation's movies. That somewhere, was a treasure trove of similar flicks, just waiting for me to enjoy! To me it made perfect sense. You see I'm already a big fan of those heavenly meatballs topped with that creamy gravy and then those sneaky Swedish devils complete this culinary masterpiece with their sweet tangy lingonberry sauce, it hardly matters they then sprinkle parsley on everything. I mean they could sprinkle a crushed half smoked cigar on it and it still would be absolutely delectable. Pardon me, I digress. I'm almost tempted to exclude another reason I'm indebted to Sweden. If you've ever wanted to interior design on a budget, yet have it look like you cleaned out one of Trump's accounts, listen up- First you do need to buy a few high end pieces and make sure they're centrally located, that they catch the eye. Then you rent an extra large Uhaul and head down to Ikea. Fill that truck up with everything else you need and I mean everything because that's exactly what they have. Then get ready for your formerly nice friends to be green with envy. You see, one of the reasons they liked you is they THOUGHT that they had more money than you. The fact that they do can be a little secret, just between you and Sweden!Back to the movie- That critics opinion is not going to persuade me to not find out for myself. Especially when were talking about this writer, director and film crew! Big BRAVO and great job! For me, this movie had everything, I was so thoroughly engrossed, enthralled, entertained, OK already you get it! I loved it because it touched on nearly all of my personal interests/loves; History, an exotic beach vacation, learning/observing other cultures, travel (especially when not trapped/jammed together with other tourists but rather with locals that are not trying to sell you something), my favorite animal is... you guessed right- a monkey! I also am very interested in aging gracefully and have a great desire to experience fun adventures when elderly- this flick subconsciously gives me hope while informing of the fact it's a choice as evidenced by the younger folk stuck in the elderly home/hospital. I knew the lead actor was not really 101 on some levels (I hope!) but had a mental checklist going; OK, he's got his faculties, he's walking very well, nice job getting through the window! So when I learned the fine actor with great makeup was only 52 I was somewhat disappointed. I love time travel, "Time travel movies" you ask? "Yeah sure, some but even more the concept and fantasizing about what it was like back in time". While this movie did not feature a time machine, some of my favorite scenes were the flashbacks, especially the party in Berlin and the Nixon scenes. Such a great job of seamlessly incorporating the fictional movie into factual history! Finally I really enjoy this brand of humor. A critical critic said the movie was a black comedy in the same class as "Fargo". While "Fargo" is on my short list of favorite movies, I'm not a certified movie buff. Is this the right term? Black?

So, that said, I haven't yet figured out why I look forward to a repeat and some deep Thoughts to why I love this movie so much. Additionally I just wish I wasn't so lost during the cold war part as the user reviewer "steinberger 00911" on 4/09/2017 so insightfully pointed out. Why is this? My parents are both from Europe and the majority of us here are of European descent. Please help me man!