Allan Karlsson is one of those rare characters so rich in wisdom and humour that I wish I could meet him and toast his brilliance with several shots of aqvavit. He is the title character of The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared, an adaption of Jonas Jonasson’s great 2009 novel.
As Allan turns 100 he decides to break the confines of his nursing home bedsit. As the film title suggests he climbs through his bedroom window and re-enters the big wide world. In doing so he turns down the chance of a massive cake, an obvious character flaw, but what he lacks in cake-appreciation he makes up for in a sense of adventure. Soon after his escape Allan accidentally acquires a large, heavy suitcase. The film follows his thrilling and often funny adventures as the contents of the suitcase inject life back in to the old dog and throw him in to the path of new friends and a bloodthirsty gang.
As Allan reminisces we also learn of his colourful, fascinating past, some of which he spent in the company of some of the twentieth century’s most scandalous people. The story takes Allan through some incredible settings and gorgeous scenery - for this reason alone I’d recommend enjoying this film on the big screen.
For such a fantastical, fast paced story, with more explosions than your average Bond film, it is surprisingly relatable and human. It deals affectionately and sensitively with old age and, through one of Allan’s new friends, it deals with the lack of direction and fear of failure experienced in youth. With twists and turns the plot is most definitely gripping from start to finish.
The cast list includes Nottingham’s very own David Shackleton who plays the brilliantly funny Herbert Einstein, Albert’s half-wit brother. Fellow Brit Alan Ford also turns up to play a slightly more glamourous version of his Lock, Stock... and Snatch gangster roles. The rest of the cast are all equally brilliant but the stand out actor is Robert Gustafsson who plays Allan. I was a bit concerned about how well a surprisingly young comedian would tackle such a unique, difficult and wonderful role. I needn’t have worried, he worked well with the rubbery prosthetics and his performance was respectful, hilarious and moving. The man has talent.
Made by a Swedish film company The 100-Year-Old Man... is an excellent showcase of writing talent from Hans Ingemansson and Felix Herngren (who also directs) and it is a sympathetic adaptation of the novel. This film has all the sweet, fizzy feel-good of chocolate covered popping candy but underneath it is exciting, intelligent and beautifully acted. A fitting tribute to an excellent book.
The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared is showing at Broadway Cinema until Thursday 17 July 2014. David Shackleton will be introducing the 1.30pm screening on Thursday 17 July.
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