Family Time

Family Time, a debut film by director and screenwriter Tia Kouvo, brilliantly depicts disturbed family dynamics. It is based on her short film of the same name. The movie had its premiere in the Encounters section of the Berlinale, showcasing original films that challenge traditional storytelling and aesthetics. "Mummola" challenges conventional narration with its long, static shots that occasionally leave some characters completely outside the frame.

In the film, three generations gather at the family's grandma's house to celebrate Christmas in a snowy countryside setting. They humorously and tragically attend to their alcoholic grandfather, while the grandmother and adult children try to uphold their usual Christmas routine. Kouvo's signature style has rightfully been compared to that of Kaurismäki, with visual minimalism and dry humor serving as strong elements in the film.

Laura Laaksonen

Producers Jussi Rantamäki and Emilia Haukka, director Tia Kouvo, as well as actors Ria Kataja, Jarkko Pajunen, Tom Wentzel, and Toomas Talikka will be present at the screening. There will be a Q&A after the screening.