Eat, Sleep, Die ( Gabriela Pichler, 2012): Sweden

Reviewed by Lorena Alvarez. Viewed at the AFI Fest 2012

A film with an unusual perspective on unemployment is what Gabriela Pichler wants to give us. Set in Sweden, our young protagonist Rasa, a lower-middle class worker who is threatened by the economic crisis, has to face xenophobia which is latent and manifests in many subtle ways.

The film opens with Rasa ( interpreted by Nermica  Lukac ), a young girl who is able to pack more lettuce than anyone in record time at the factory where she works. Bringing her salary and her unabashed joy to her family, composed by his father (Milan Dragisic) only.

When her father parts to Norway and she is laid off, Rasa decides to find another job no matter what, because her life without a job is totally empty. So she tries  everything to fulfill her goal, but something  always happens, and she is dragged further away from her target.

In the final scene, Rasa is at her usual bar, stressed by her failure trying to get a job, finally  she vents her frustration on her friends, but they decide to cheer up  and reminding her that something bigger is coming for her.

The acting is charismatic, a bit exaggerated, causing tenderness. The credibility in terms of compatibility between Nermica and Milan is marvelous. Anyone would think that they are related. All characters gain sympathy.

The editing is simple, it seems that  was only edited to link the scenes without many visual effects. On the other hand, they decided to focus more on the audio, making a good mix between the sounds and the little presence of music, only in specific moments.  The cinematography is pure, they used long shots and establishing shots. The filmmaker shows many details in every frame, transforming this screening into an admirable picture with  graceful landscapes.

In conclusion, watching this film was a good experience in the festival,  although not the best. Eat, Sleep, Die  has a  powerful and mature voice to speak universal themes in its personal and authentic way, reminding us that we must never give up, but give our very best  and always keep moving forward.