The Doldrums or How to Cure Sadness
The Doldrums or How to Cure Sadness

Movie spotlight

The Doldrums or How to Cure Sadness

2012
Movie
12 min
Spanish

The tiricia is an illness of the soul when the heart is saddened. A story of three generations afflicted with being tiricientas: Ita, Justa and Alicia – grandmother, mother and daughter – who have at different times suffered, tolerated and allowed abuse, dragging on the disease. Alicia decides to break the cycle, eradicating it for future generations.

Insights

Director: Kjeld SimonsenGenres: Documentary

Plot Summary

This documentary explores the concept of 'The Doldrums,' a state of emotional stagnation and sadness, through a series of personal reflections and historical anecdotes. Director Kjeld Simonsen uses archival footage and interviews to delve into the nature of melancholy and the human desire to overcome it. The film seeks to understand the roots of sadness and offers contemplative insights into finding a path towards emotional well-being.

Critical Reception

The film received a modest reception, largely appreciated for its introspective and philosophical approach to a complex emotional state. Critics noted its unique style and the director's personal engagement with the subject matter, though some found its pacing slow. Audience reactions were generally thoughtful, resonating with those who appreciated its non-traditional exploration of mental health and emotional resilience.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its unique, personal exploration of sadness.

  • Some viewers found the documentary's reflective pace to be slow.

  • Appreciated for its contemplative insights into emotional recovery.

Google audience: Google users often highlighted the film's thought-provoking nature and its ability to prompt introspection on personal feelings of sadness. Many found the director's personal journey relatable and inspiring, although a segment of viewers wished for more concrete solutions or a more dynamic narrative structure.

Fun Fact

The documentary features archival footage and discussions related to figures like Marlon Brando and J. Robert Oppenheimer, drawing parallels between their public personas or historical contexts and the film's themes of internal struggle and emotional states.

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