Bohemian Life

Independent Finnish filmmaker Aki Kaurismäki draws on the novel "The Bohemians of the Latin Quarter" (1851) by French writer Henri Murger (1822-1861), which also inspired Puccini's opera "La Bohème".

The writer Marcel, Albanian immigrant Rodolfo who supports himself through painting and music, and composer Schaunard share friendship and devotion to the arts. They drift through cheap Parisian apartments, alternating between poverty and comfort, occasionally enjoying the company of beautiful women. Carefree days end when Rodolfo falls in love with Mimi - but she cannot bear endless hardship. She leaves, yet returns some time later, mortally ill. The painter is left with only art and friends.