“Sauna Rules”
Ali, a lonely, elderly immigrant, seeks out new relations in a public bathhouse. But, with limited knowledge about the local sauna rules, making a good impression can be harder than first expected.
Ever since I started going to the sauna regularly, I’ve wanted to make a film about this fascinating place where strangers are completely naked just inches from each other.
In Denmark, we have a strong sauna culture, especially among our seniors, who like to spend their early mornings together in the sauna, discussing everything from politics to bus schedules.
From the outside, a community like this — despite its typically conservative worldview — seems like a dream scenario for most senior citizens. But, as with many communities, it can be pretty hard to make friends and be genuinely welcomed into the community if you are from a different background or culture.
This led me to the creation of the main character ‘Ali’, and together with him, we dive into the mind-boggling world of the Danish saunas.