Train drivers in the U.K aren't generally held in much esteem. In Norway, especially in Bent's O'Horten's character, they're seemingly more akin to the status of airline pilots.
Unmarried and strictly routined Odd, (Horten) has been criss-crossing Scandinavia for so long on two rails, he's forgotten what life actually is. Reaching his enforced retirement age his routine is shattered. He tries to boycott his own retirement party but, somehow gets entwined, (by accident, of course).
What follows are a series of minor mishaps, that take their natural time to develop. He then meets an eccentric; together they go a bit wild, the eccentric behaving normally (for him), O'Horten having the time of his life. Will he grow up? Surely the slightly painful-to-watch and uneasy alliance and tactics will all end in tears?
Something profound and life-changing may have happened (I don't want to spoil and depends on how you see 'it') and the after effects could mean he's simply had his 'blast-out' and quickly moved on into being a sensible pensioner, or, what I think might be the case. (I prefer mine!)
Compared to Bent's earlier 'Kitchen Stories' which is more interestingly offbeat (my review of that to follow), O'Horten will give a knowing and warming chuckle to those of Odd's age and predicament, as well as a broad appeal to the family. One that is pleasant enough, slightly different enough but one hardly to set the rail-tracks on fire.
Unmarried and strictly routined Odd, (Horten) has been criss-crossing Scandinavia for so long on two rails, he's forgotten what life actually is. Reaching his enforced retirement age his routine is shattered. He tries to boycott his own retirement party but, somehow gets entwined, (by accident, of course).
What follows are a series of minor mishaps, that take their natural time to develop. He then meets an eccentric; together they go a bit wild, the eccentric behaving normally (for him), O'Horten having the time of his life. Will he grow up? Surely the slightly painful-to-watch and uneasy alliance and tactics will all end in tears?
Something profound and life-changing may have happened (I don't want to spoil and depends on how you see 'it') and the after effects could mean he's simply had his 'blast-out' and quickly moved on into being a sensible pensioner, or, what I think might be the case. (I prefer mine!)
Compared to Bent's earlier 'Kitchen Stories' which is more interestingly offbeat (my review of that to follow), O'Horten will give a knowing and warming chuckle to those of Odd's age and predicament, as well as a broad appeal to the family. One that is pleasant enough, slightly different enough but one hardly to set the rail-tracks on fire.