A Somewhat Gentle Man

A Somewhat Gentle Man is a great black comedy that supplies ample wit as it tells the story of Ulrik (Skarsgärd), a man rebooting his life after a 12-year prison term. 

An old friend and low-rent crime boss Jensen assists Ulrik along his new found path by providing a room, a job and a score to settle – whacking the guy who ratted him out a dozen years before. Along the way Ulrik navigates a course that keeps him in contact with his ex-wife, a son who would rather forget him, his new boss and his dirty, dirty landlady.

The humor is dry and lean but so good and the timing is always perfect that A Somewhat Gentle Man works. Skarsgard’s Ulrick is a little weary but he never lingers in a situation too long. The story keeps Ulrik moving and adapting to his new life even when it seems like he might begin to slow down and succumb to baser instincts.  And keep an eye out for Kjellsby’s Karen Margrethe, she’s the true hidden gem in the rough crowd that surrounds Ulrik. 

Arguably, A Somewhat Gentle Man was one of the best films to screen at Fantastic Fest 2010. With drama, humor and just a touch of sentiment the film is just light enough to be fun.  But you must not overlook the serious aspects, they explore the murky elements of one man’s life, moving forward from prison to his personal liberation.