Being Ola Review: A Sweet and Gentle Documentary on Disability and Friendship
Being Ola is a sweet, slight, and gentle documentary film that follows Ola Henningsen, a man in early middle age with a round, placid face who resides in a village community in eastern Norway designed for people with learning and developmental disabilities. The original Norwegian title translates to Ola: A Completely Ordinary Unusual Guy, hinting at the nuanced portrayal within.
Ola's Life and Self-Perception
Director Ragnhild Nøst Bergem interviews Ola and accompanies him around the village, capturing his daily life. Ola describes himself as "slow", yet he appears perfectly intelligent and articulate, challenging simplistic labels. The film delves into his world, showcasing his interactions and the supportive environment of the community.
The Heart of the Film: Ola's Relationship with Lasse
The documentary's core focuses on Ola's relationship with Lasse, a Danish care worker who once lived in the community, assisting with activities. Lasse did nothing to discourage Ola from viewing him as his "best friend", fostering a deep bond. However, Ola was clearly very hurt and heartbroken when Lasse inevitably had to leave the community and return to Copenhagen after his employment term ended, highlighting themes of abandonment.
A Journey of Reconciliation
The second part of the film shows Ola embarking on a trip to visit Lasse in Copenhagen, made possible only with Bergem accompanying him as his carer. During this visit, Ola to some extent confesses his feelings of abandonment to Lasse, seeking closure. The resolution appears painless, with Ola maintaining his usual smiley demeanor throughout.
Unanswered Questions and Deeper Implications
Yet, viewers might wonder if there is a more difficult, untold story here. Has Ola learned something about his feelings for Lasse and himself? Has he come to terms with the reality that he can never be Lasse's friend in the full, conventional sense? The film leaves these questions somewhat unclear, as Lasse is not interviewed independently on the matter. Investigating this could have created a more complex narrative than the gentle one Bergem aimed to craft.
Being Ola is scheduled for release in UK and Irish cinemas from 3 April, offering a poignant look at disability, friendship, and emotional resilience.
