Today 1997
Eija-Liisa Ahtila's *Today (1997)* is a haunting, three-part experimental short that weaves a poignant tale of family, loss, and fractured perspectives.
Director: Eija-Liisa Ahtila
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Today (1997) about?
*Today (1997)* follows three interconnected episodes that examine a family's response to a grandfather's sudden death. Each perspective—from intimate family members—reveals how grief distorts perception and memory, blending personal sorrow with universal themes of loss and resilience.
Who directed Today?
Today was directed by Eija-Liisa Ahtila, a Finnish filmmaker celebrated for her experimental and thought-provoking approach to visual storytelling.
Who stars in Today?
Cast details for *Today (1997)* are not publicly listed, as the film focuses more on thematic exploration than individual performances.
Is Today (1997) worth watching?
While *Today (1997)* is an unrated experimental short, its innovative storytelling and emotional depth make it compelling for fans of arthouse cinema. Its brevity and stark visuals offer a unique viewing experience, though it may not appeal to all audiences.
How long is Today?
Today (1997) has a runtime of 10 minutes.
About Today (1997) — A Haunting Experimental Short on Family and Loss
Eija-Liisa Ahtila's *Today (1997)* is a haunting, three-part experimental short that weaves a poignant tale of family, loss, and fractured perspectives. Set against a quiet summer night, the film captures the sudden death of a grandfather in an accident, seen through the eyes of three distinct characters—each offering a raw, intimate glimpse into grief and memory. Ahtila's innovative approach blends technical mastery with emotional depth, using stark visuals and fragmented storytelling to explore how different people process the same tragic event. The result is a work that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant, inviting viewers to ponder the fluid nature of truth and understanding.
Director Eija-Liisa Ahtila, known for her boundary-pushing cinematic experiments, crafts *Today (1997)* with a deliberate, almost hypnotic rhythm. The black-and-white cinematography heightens the raw emotion, while the episodic structure mirrors the disjointed way trauma lingers in the mind. Though brief, the film lingers long after it ends, leaving audiences to reflect on the fragility of family bonds and the stories we tell to make sense of loss.