Songs from the Second Floor

An extended rumination on existential angst shot in static long takes and painstakingly esoteric style by perfectionist writer-director Roy Andersson, Songs from the Second Floor is set at the turn of the new millennium in an unnamed city on the verge of social and economic chaos. In a deadpan tone, Andersson offers a succession of mordantly humorous episodes commenting on the absurdity and emptiness of modern life, focusing on what he obviously perceives as the baleful effects of capitalism, in a plot thread that traces the personal and professional tribulations of a disheveled businessman who has burned down his furniture store for the insurance while trying to deal with his mentally disturbed son. One has to admire the craftsmanship of Songs from the Second Floor; the thirty-plus scenes are exquisitely composed tableaux, with background movement carefully choreographed to complement the action up front, and much of the film is quite funny in an odd, off-kilter way. Still, after a while the stylistic affectation grows oppressive, the critique of modernity too obvious, and by the time the credits roll many will consider the movie more trick than treat. A strong optional purchase. [Note: DVD extras include subtitled audio commentary by director Roy Andersson (with Ronny Svensson), three “Work in Progress” behind-the-scenes score-backed segments, a narration-less behind-the-scenes featurette, four deleted scenes with subtitled director commentary, text production notes (including bios and filmographies), and trailers. Bottom line: a solid extras package for an uneven film.] (F. Swietek)