Aki Kaurismäki masterfully portrays Finnish identity in a way that is both exaggerated and yet feels natural, „Lights in the dusk“ captures his spirit in a beautiful way. His films are unconventional, with characters that are distinctly unsentimental. Communication and Emotions are barely present, which aligns with the cliché of the introverted and melancholic Finn. While the protagonists are lonely outcasts, Kaurismäki still finds ways to make his minimalist comedy work.

Lights in the dusk marks the last one of Kaurismäkis „The Looser Trilogy“ after „Drifting Clouds“ and „The Man without a past“. Taking place in a distant, bleak and desolate Helsinki a rather gritty setting is created. The protagonist Koistinen, is a night watch, living an isolated life until he meets the attractive Mirja, who quickly brings light to his otherwise rather tragic life. Even tho it seems hard to believe that someone like her would genuinely be interested in a man like him, there stays an everlasting hope for a happy ending. Her appearance seems to be a happy twist, but turns out to be an act of manipulation: The Role of Mirja is a perfect illustration of a femme fatal. Koistinen is involuntary becoming a symbol of the working class, more specifically the common man, powerless in the face of modern society.

The movies femme fatal is perfectly played by Maria Järvenhelmi, Fans of Kaurismäki recognize her from other films. The actress embodies a role that is both seductive and calculating, she appears fascinating yet distant. She is a symbol of the believe that no matter what one does it ultimately makes no difference when faced with powerful people. Still, we want to believe that deep down, she is good.

Even tho Kaurismäki does not allow his characters to show their feelings, the movie takes us on a road of emotions. It is a perfect representation of his movies: Full of Finnish humor but yet so tragic.