“The Match Factory Girl” is a quiet, unassuming film that tells the simple yet haunting story of a young woman working in a match factory who is constantly belittled and mistreated by everyone around her. Through its stark cinematography and minimal dialogue, the film captures the oppressive atmosphere of her life and the crushing despair that slowly engulfs her. Despite its quietness, the film’s impact lingers long after it ends, leaving us with an unsettling sense of unease and overwhelming sadness.
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Review
Malcolm Gladwell is a master of using storytelling techniques to make the mundane seem fascinating. His writing allows readers to see the world in new ways, and his style can be applied to a wide range of topics. One example is “The Match Factory Girl,” a 1990 Finnish film by Aki Kaurismäki. This movie tells the tale of a young woman named Iris who works in a match factory and feels trapped in her life. In this article, we’ll explore the plot, cast, and production of “The Match Factory Girl” using Gladwell’s engaging and creative style.
The Storyline
At first glance, “The Match Factory Girl” seems like an unremarkable story. It follows Iris, an introverted woman who lives with her parents and works in a factory making matches. She dreams of having a more exciting life but is resigned to her mundane existence. However, as the movie unfolds, we see that there’s more going on beneath the surface.
Iris’ family treats her poorly, constantly criticizing her appearance and behavior. Her co-workers are similarly dismissive of her, barely acknowledging her presence. One day, after getting stood up on a date by a man she had hoped would rescue her from this life, Iris snaps.
What follows is a darkly humorous exploration of what happens when someone who’s been pushed too far decides to take revenge in unexpected ways. As Iris goes through her plan like an automaton, we start to realize how truly desperate she is for something – anything – to change in her life.
Facts
“The Match Factory Girl” was directed by Aki Kaurismäki and released in 1990. It stars Kati Outinen as Iris and features Markku Peltola as one of the few people who shows her kindness.
This film was shot on 35mm film stock with an aspect ratio of 1:66:1. The production budget was reportedly around 1.5 million Finnish marks.
Casts
Kati Outinen delivers a powerful performance as Iris, portraying her character’s frustration and desperation with nuance and restraint. Her performance won her several awards, including a Best Actress award at the 1990 Cannes Film Festival.
Markku Peltola’s portrayal of Aarne, the man who shows Iris kindness, is equally well-done. His stoic presence serves as a counterpoint to Iris’ volatility.
Other cast members include Elina Salo as Iris’ mother and Esko Nikkari as her father. While their characters are not given much depth, they serve as effective foils to Iris’ struggles.
Quotes
One of the most memorable quotes from “The Match Factory Girl” is when Iris says:
“I’m in the wrong place, doing the wrong things.”
This line perfectly encapsulates the sense of frustration and despair that pervades the film. It also highlights how easy it can be for someone to lose their way in life.
Acting and Characters
The acting in “The Match Factory Girl” is understated but effective. Kaurismäki’s direction emphasizes economy of expression, allowing his actors to convey emotion through small gestures and facial expressions rather than dialogue.
The characters in this film are all struggling in some way. Everyone seems trapped by their situation or surroundings, unable to break free no matter how hard they try. This creates a pervasive sense of hopelessness that is hard to shake off even after the movie has ended.
History
“The Match Factory Girl” was part of a wave of Finnish films that emerged in the 1980s and 90s known as the “new cinema movement.” These films were characterized by their stark realism, dark humor, and focus on social issues.
Kaurismäki was one of the key figures in this movement, along with his brother Mika. Together, they would go on to make several other acclaimed films, including “The Man Without a Past” and “Le Havre.”
Score and Popularity
The score for “The Match Factory Girl” was composed by Veijo Tormis. It features haunting melodies played on the accordion and cello that perfectly complement the film’s somber tone.
Despite its critical acclaim, “The Match Factory Girl” is not widely known outside of Finland. This may be due in part to its somber subject matter and lack of traditional storytelling conventions.
Filming
Kaurismäki’s minimalist style is on full display in “The Match Factory Girl.” The film is shot mostly in long takes with static camera setups, emphasizing the characters’ isolation and the drabness of their surroundings.
The use of color is also noteworthy. Most scenes are dominated by muted shades of brown, blue, and gray, which further reinforces the sense of bleakness that permeates the movie.
Evaluation
Overall, “The Match Factory Girl” is a bleak but powerful film that explores themes of isolation, desperation, and revenge. Kaurismäki’s direction is understated but effective, allowing his actors to shine while never losing sight of the story’s emotional core.
Awards
In addition to Kati Outinen’s Best Actress award at Cannes, “The Match Factory Girl” also won Best Film at the Norwegian International Film Festival in 1990.
Cinematography
Kaurismäki worked with cinematographer Timo Salminen on this project. Their collaboration resulted in some striking visual moments that stay with viewers long after the movie has ended.
Opinion
While “The Match Factory Girl” may not be for everyone – it’s a slow-moving movie with no real hero – it remains a powerful exploration of what can happen when someone feels trapped by their circumstances. It’s a testament to Kaurismäki’s skill as a filmmaker that he can take such a bleak story and turn it into something that is both poignant and thought-provoking.
Scenes
One of the most powerful scenes in “The Match Factory Girl” is when Iris finally snaps and takes her revenge. The moment is surprising but also inevitable, given everything we’ve seen up to that point. It’s a testament to Outinen’s acting that she can portray such a complex character with such subtlety.
Gossip
Despite its critical acclaim, there have been few gossip-worthy stories about “The Match Factory Girl.” Perhaps this is because Kaurismäki is known for eschewing the spotlight in favor of letting his films speak for themselves.
Soundtracks
Veijo Tormis’ haunting score perfectly captures the mood of “The Match Factory Girl.” The accordion and cello are used to great effect, creating a sense of melancholy that lingers throughout the movie.
Analysis
At its core, “The Match Factory Girl” is about the human desire for connection and how that can be frustrated by both internal and external factors. It’s a bleak but ultimately hopeful film that suggests even those who seem lost may find their way if they keep searching.
Special Effects
There are no special effects in “The Match Factory Girl,” which speaks to Kaurismäki’s preference for simplicity. Instead, the film relies on its performances and cinematography to create an immersive experience for viewers.
Development
Kaurismäki wrote the script for “The Match Factory Girl” himself, drawing on his experiences growing up in Finland. He has cited influences like Jean-Pierre Melville and Robert Bresson as inspirations for his style.
Dialogue
There isn’t much dialogue in “The Match Factory Girl,” which fits with Kaurismäki’s minimalist approach. However, when characters do speak, their words tend to carry weight and meaning.
Crews
Kaurismäki worked with a small crew on this film, but everyone involved brought their A-game. From the actors to the cinematographer to the composer, every element of “The Match Factory Girl” works together seamlessly.
Criticism
While “The Match Factory Girl” has received critical acclaim, there are some who have criticized its bleak tone and lack of traditional storytelling conventions. However, for those who appreciate Kaurismäki’s unique approach to filmmaking, this movie is a must-see.
Production
“The Match Factory Girl” was produced by Sputnik Oy and released by Kaurismäki’s own production company, Villealfa Filmproductions. It was shot on location in Finland.
Editing
Kaurismäki worked with editor Raija Talvio on this film, and their collaboration resulted in a seamless final product that effectively balances humor and tragedy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “The Match Factory Girl” is a powerful exploration of what happens when someone feels trapped by their circumstances. Kaurismäki’s minimalist style may not be for everyone, but those who appreciate his approach will find much to admire here. With its haunting score and masterful performances, this film is a true gem of Finnish cinema that deserves more recognition outside of its home country.
Technical Data
- Runtime : 69
- Release : 1990-01-12
- Genre : Drama, Comedy
- Cast : Kati Outinen as Iris Rukka, Elina Salo as Mother, Esko Nikkari as Stepfather, Vesa Vierikko as Aarne, Reijo Taipale as Singer
- Crew : Aki Kaurismäki as Director, Aki Kaurismäki as Editor, Aki Kaurismäki as Producer, Aki Kaurismäki as Writer, Timo Salminen as Director of Photography
- Popularity 7.976
- Budget : $474,700
- Revenue : 0
- Company : Villealfa Filmproductions, Svenska Filminstitutet, Esselte Video
- Summary : A young woman with nothing to look forward to in life discovers that she has been impregnated by a man who wants nothing to do with it.
- Tagline :
