On My Mind

Greetings again from the darkness. We don't typically associate karaoke with life and death matters. And neither do warm-hearted barkeep Louise (Camilla Bendix) or grumpy and miserly bar owner Preben (Ole Boisen). However, their only Tuesday morning customer, Henrik (Rasmus Hammerich), is adamant that he must perform Elvis' "Always on My Mind" immediately.

Writer-director Martin Strange-Hansen (an Oscar winner for his 2002 short film, THIS CHARMING MAN) teases us a bit at first. Is Henrik the homeless man that grouchy Preben assumes him to be ... annoyed that Henrik's opening of the door allowed a gust of wind to scatter the bookkeeping papers Preben is fretting over? Or are Louise's instincts in order ... is there more to Henrik's desire to sing the song than just a whim?

This is an 18-minute short film from Denmark (nominated for an Oscar), and it reminds us not to pre-judge others since everyone is dealing with something. By the time all is revealed, we want to share Henrik's desire to "make the soul fly."

It's a beautiful little film about things you just HAVE TO DO to feel good about yourself.

Things aren't always what they seem to be. Lesson COULD be, that TIME given to get to know peoples "reason to" - is worth looking for.