Published:
Kauas pilvet karkaavat
The first part of Aki Kaurismäki’s Finland Trilogy, Drifting Clouds, dedicated to the memory of Matti Pellonpää, tells the story of head waitress Ilona (Kati Outinen) and her husband Lauri (Kari Väänänen), who works as a tram driver. Both suddenly lose their jobs and are forced to rebuild their lives and social dignity from scratch. The resilient couple eventually decides to open their own restaurant with the help of their friends, and after many challenges, their shared dream becomes a reality. The opening night is filled with tension as they await their first customers, who soon start to arrive. Their risky venture succeeds. The happy Lauri and Ilona step outside in front of their restaurant with their family dog and look up at the sky, where the clouds drift freely.
Director:
Aki Kaurismäki
Starring:
Kati Outinen
Kari Väänänen
Elina Salo
The film won Jussi Awards for Best Direction, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actress, Best Screenplay, and Film of the Year.