A Slipping Down Life Review

Well, here I am again, folks! Sitting on my balcony on a cold November afternoon with kalld brew coffee that’s just perfect. A friend of mine, let’s call him Pelle, once said to me: “A movie can be like a great äppelkaka, it’s not perfect until you’ve savored all the layers.” And speaking of layers, let’s dig into “A Slipping Down Life”, a little gem directed by Toni Kalem. She’s not exactly a household name in Sverige, but oh my, what a surprise this flick is!

Staring the ever-so-engaging Lili Taylor, who many will remember from her intense presence in “I Shot Andy Warhol”. Taylor plays Evie Decker, a character grappling with life’s complexities just like we all do when we’re trying to find our footing in the big world. Imagine diving into a muddy Swedish höstskog, it’s cold, confusing but strangely liberating — that’s Evie’s life. And then there’s Guy Pearce as the enigmatic singer Drumstrings Casey. Yes, the same Pearce from “Memento” and “L.A. Confidential”. He’s got this soft Southern drawl that feels almost as inviting as a warm kladdkaka on a snowy afternoon.

What’s funny—or maybe odd—is how the movie touches on themes of identity and self-worth, like when you’re deciding if blåbärssoppa really is a meal or simply a glorified drink. There’s a bit of a slower pace, almost like waiting for a Swedish train in the dead of winter, but the film rewards patience. I had mixed feelings though. There are moments where it feels like it’s about to trip, and those were times where I kinda zoned out like during a long mörk vinter night.

The music here, while not quite ABBA, gives a mystical texture to Evie’s world. I couldn’t help but imagine curling up by the fireplace with some glögg, letting the soundtrack transport me. It feels almost impossible not to care about Evie’s odd journey. And maybe that’s the real charm of “A Slipping Down Life.” It gently tugs at the universal search for meaning and love.

So, are you gonna love this movie like a melodious svensk sommar morning or will it leave you scratching your head like when IKEA instructions don’t make sense? Honestly, it’s worth it.

Check the trailer below