A Poet
In this black comedy, a forgotten and painfully awkward poet finds a new direction in life when he becomes a teacher.
Oscar Restrepo’s (Ubeimar Rios) life is not really working out. His marriage is a distant memory, and even his daughter refuses to spend time with him. Once upon a time, Oscar might have been a gifted poet, but the last time he published anything was decades ago, and even then, his works weren’t exactly bestsellers. He feels like a regular job is not suited for him, but he is eventually forced to become a teacher, in order to pay at least part of his daughter’s tuition fees – and to avoid eviction.
Surprisingly, teaching gives Oscar’s life at least some meaning, and he is even able to ditch an old habit that has plagued his life. When Yurlady (Rebeca Andrade), a student from a modest background, turns out to be a gifted poet, Oscar becomes convinced that he might earn some of the recognition he is due by acting as her mentor. Many others also feel like they could use Yurlady for their own benefit, while no one seems to be interested in asking Yurlady what she wants from her life.
In Simón Mesa Soto’s tragicomic tale, positive turns of events bring some light to life, but the fragile light of hope is overcast by bad decisions. Is Oscar capable of growth?
Herman Tikkanen
Screenings
-
Gilda 1Fri 18.9. at 18.15–20.18123 min, 1/3
-
Maxim 1Wed 23.9. at 16.45–18.48123 min, 2/3
-
Kino Engel 1Sun 27.9. at 18.30–20.33123 min, 3/3