MOVIE REVIEW
Life and Other Problems (Livet og andre problemer)
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Genre: Documentary
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 40m
Director(s): Max Kestner
Where To Watch: world premiere at the 2024 CPH:DOX Film Festival

RAVING REVIEW: Right off the bat, LIFE AND OTHER PROBLEMS is a refreshing breath of fresh air in the documentary genre, driven by Max Kestner's inventive direction. This film, initiating its narrative with the euthanasia of Marius, the giraffe, quickly escalates into a grand expedition exploring the vast landscapes of existence, consciousness, and the bonds of life that intertwine us all. Kestner crafts a journey as intellectually stimulating as surprisingly filled with heart, turning a potentially somber subject into an accessible, highly engaging experience.

Kestner's approach to filmmaking is inviting and illuminating. With the help of visionary thinkers like Charles Foster and Eske Willerslev, he guides the audience through a maze of philosophical questions. LIFE AND OTHER PROBLEMS stand out by transforming complex, age-old thoughts about our existence into a fascinating narrative that captivates and educates without ever overwhelming its viewers. It's this balancing act between depth and accessibility that turns the film into an enlightening exploration rather than a dense scholarly discourse.

The documentary gains its richness from a wide-ranging palette of perspectives, journeying from the bustling urban settings of Japan to the untouched wilderness of Chile. This variety enhances the film's appeal and underpins the universal nature of the questions at its heart. Through this global lens, Kestner not only broadens our understanding of life's mysteries but also underscores our collective yearning for answers about life, death, and our intrinsic connection to the environment.

Central to the film's allure is its contemplation of life's inherent unpredictability and the pivotal role that individual choice and consciousness play in carving our destinies. By inviting viewers to reflect on their environmental impact and the legacy they wish to leave, Kestner adds a personal layer to the film's broader philosophical canvas, making the existential journey relatable and profound.

LIFE AND OTHER PROBLEMS is a testament to Kestner's prowess in blending genres merging elements of fiction and animation with documentary techniques to create a visually stunning and emotionally resonant experience. This creativity showcases Kestner's versatility as a filmmaker and his ability to connect with audiences on many levels, as evidenced by his receipt of prestigious awards like the Dreyer Prize and the Roos Prize.

Moreover, the film aims to recalibrate our empathy for various life forms and our stewardship of the planet. By challenging viewers to reassess our valuation of life—from the microscopic to the majestic—Kestner encourages a more nuanced appreciation of the delicate ecological balance that underpins our existence.

LIFE AND OTHER PROBLEMS is a beautifully woven narrative that bridges the gap between the cerebral and the sentimental, the abstract and the tangible. It's an invitation to embrace life's most profound questions, challenge our preconceptions, and bask in the pursuit of understanding the intricate, beautiful puzzle of existence. Through this journey, Kestner delivers a visually arresting film and crafts a narrative that stirs the soul and sparks the intellect. This film stands as a vibrant reminder of the splendor and complexity of life, offering viewers a perspective that is as refreshing as it is profoundly enlightening.

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[photo courtesy of BULLITT FILM, PLATTFORM PRODUKTION, HOPSCOTCH FILMS]

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