It is Aki Kaurismäki's charming and heart-rending version of Henri Murger's Boheme novel. The attic flats and cafes of the Quartier Latin were once the refuge of unappreciated genius and high-minded self-indulgence. Three great artists, the Albanian painter Rodolfo, the French poet Marcel and the Irish composer Schaunard, spend most of their time in pursuit of the lowly franc. The rest is devoted to women: ,,La Vie de Bohéme" is also the tragic love story of Rodolfo and Mimi. A masterpiece of laconic humour by Aki Kaurismäki, who has directed this film with anger, passion and a great deal of love for the little man. A subtle portrait in black & white.
