It’s not often a movie can so persuasively reassure us of people’s inherent goodness, but it’s even rarer still for it to be done with as much deceptive, charming simplicity as here.

| Sep 2, 2023

M is a multilayered character. He is both an outcast and an artist, but he could be much more. He is no one and everyone, and Helsinki for him is nothing and everything.

| Feb 22, 2020

With its rusty railroads and dingy metal canisters where the downtrodden dwell, [this film] finds color, surprise, and joy in the simplicity of struggling Helsinki outcasts.

| Original Score: B+ | Mar 16, 2019

...dourly delightful.

| Original Score: 3.5/4 | May 19, 2016

| Original Score: 4/5 | Dec 30, 2006

| Original Score: 4/5 | Dec 6, 2005

What sets this film apart from other quirky adventures is its internal coherence (both in terms of storytelling and visual style) as well as the humanity of its characters.

| Feb 20, 2005

| Original Score: B+ | Aug 7, 2004

Kaurismaki's affection for and faith in people shines through even in the darkest moments

| Original Score: 83/100 | Feb 12, 2004

A slow-paced film, it certainly has its rewards for the patient viewer, but it is not the kind of film to knock your socks off with its sparkling comedy.

| Original Score: B | Jan 17, 2004

Lo grandioso de El Hombre sin Pasado es que es una pelcula simple, sobre cosas simples, y sobre personas simples.

| Jan 10, 2004

A wistful, romantic concoction served straight-up, with no chaser to brace you against the strong kick of reality. . . . unforgettable.

Full Review | Dec 1, 2003

Should please those who can live with the droll acting.

| Original Score: B | Oct 20, 2003

One of the warmest and funniest films of the year.

| Original Score: 5/5 | Oct 8, 2003

To vindicate a much-maligned term, it's a nice picture.

Full Review | Original Score: 4.5/5 | Aug 29, 2003

Kaurismaki's movies can tickle you with the briefest of statements, the smallest of gestures.

Full Review | Original Score: 4/5 | Aug 29, 2003

A totally strange, beguiling, sadly humorous and humorously sad little film that's apt to linger in your memory far longer than many a more immediately impressive work.

| Original Score: 4/5 | Aug 21, 2003

It's an oblique film, so quiet that at times it seems barely more than a whisper. But don't mistake that for fragility. It boasts a hard, clear voice.

Full Review | Original Score: B+ | Aug 1, 2003

| Original Score: 3/4 | Jul 19, 2003

| Original Score: 5/5 | Jul 7, 2003