The Other Side of Hope

In Helsinki, Waldemar has a heated argument with his wife. This conflict leads him to make the drastic decision to abandon her and change his life entirely.

Determined to turn his luck around, Waldemar liquidates his remaining stock and uses the money to gamble at a poker game. Fortune smiles upon him as he wins a substantial sum, reigniting his ambition.

With his newfound wealth, Waldemar takes a bold step and purchases a restaurant. However, his three employees express skepticism about his strategies to revitalize their struggling establishment.

Meanwhile, Khaled, a Syrian refugee, arrives clandestinely in Helsinki aboard a cargo ship. After disembarking, he turns himself in to authorities to file for asylum.

At the refugee processing center, Khaled forms a friendship with Mazdak, another refugee from Iraq. Their bond grows as they discuss their challenging journeys and share hopes for a better future.

Khaled is desperate to locate his sister Miriam, who went missing during their perilous journey across the Balkans. He seeks Mazdak's help in finding her, driven by his longing to reunite with family.

Khaled's asylum request is abruptly denied, plunging him into despair. Faced with the reality of his situation, he decides to escape from the refugee center to take control of his fate.

Destiny brings Khaled to Waldemar's restaurant, where he seeks shelter from the storm. Waldemar kindly takes him in and offers him a job, recognizing a chance to help someone in need.

With the support of Waldemar and his employees, Khaled navigates the intricate process of obtaining new identification papers. This assistance is crucial for Khaled's attempt to establish a new life in Helsinki.

Mazdak brings Khaled promising news about his sister Miriam's whereabouts. Together, they devise a plan with Waldemar to arrange for her smuggling from a refugee facility in Lithuania.

The long-awaited reunion between Khaled and Miriam finally occurs, filled with tears of relief and joy. This emotional moment underscores the sacrifices made during their harrowing journey.

Tragedy strikes when Khaled faces horrific racism upon returning to Waldemar's apartment. Attacked by a brutal thug, Khaled suffers a violent stabbing that leaves him fighting for his life.

Upon returning home, Waldemar is met with a shocking sight of blood in his apartment. Horrified, he rushes outside to find Khaled gravely injured but still holding onto a sense of peace.

As Waldemar finds Khaled nestled under a tree by the riverside, he witnesses a heart-wrenching moment. Despite the severe injuries, Khaled smiles peacefully as a small dog licks his face, symbolizing hope amid despair.

The film concludes by encapsulating themes of resilience and hope. The bond formed between Waldemar and Khaled serves as a testament to the human spirit's ability to endure despite seemingly insurmountable challenges.