The Other Side of Hope (2017)

In the heart of Helsinki, two worlds collide in a most unexpected fashion. Khaled, a young Syrian mechanic, flees from the haunting abomination of Aleppo's ruins, finding himself an accidental stowaway on a coal freighter to the Finnish capital. His journey is one of desperation and hope, a search for sanctuary in an alien land. Meanwhile, a parallel tale unfolds, featuring Wikström, a disenfranchised traveling salesman grappling with the throes of a profound mid-life crisis. Their paths converge when Wikström, riding the highs of a victorious poker night, invests his winnings in a crumbling restaurant. As if guided by fate, he discovers Khaled, who has been cast into the shadows when his plea for asylum is denied, taking refuge in the derelict yard of the newly acquired eatery. In a world that has turned its back on him, Khaled finds an unlikely ally in Wikström. Wikström offers Khaled not just employment and a haven from his plight, but also a chance at a life unfettered by his past. The duo, alongside a motley crew consisting of a waitress, a chef, and a loyal dog, form an unconventional family. They carve out a slice of utopia in their shared corner of the world, a testament to humanity's resilience. As their story unfolds, the future remains uncertain for Khaled, the Syrian refugee, in Helsinki. What is undeniable, however, is the eccentric yet heartwarming new family he has found. The Other Side of Hope is a poignant exploration of despair, survival, and the power of unlikely friendships, set against the backdrop of a city that is as cold as it is welcoming.

The Other Side of Hope is a comedy movie featuring Sherwan Haji and directed by Aki Kaurismäki.

The Other Side of Hope is currently streaming on Criterion Channel.

It is also possible to buy The Other Side of Hope on Amazon Video, Google Play Movies and YouTube.