Open Arms is a loving portrayal of Norwegian artist Martin Slaatto and his elderly mother, Margit. Martin is an experienced performance artist, earning extra income as an Oslo tram driver to support himself. The film follows the development of his singular fusion of dance, art and exercise of both body and mind – the Transportation Dance. This requires moving about in unexpected ways, like “fly-flapping”, “melting”, and skipping. He is energetic and enthusiastic; unwavering in his belief in the potential of his innovation.
Margit is an artist in her own right – a poetic writer of precise and heartbreaking reflections on the experience of growing old, of losing control in a controlled environment. She is also annoyed at the Norwegian tendency to be even-tempered and “nice”: Does no one challenge anyone anymore? Why can’t people just have a laugh? Martin is a loving son and attentive listener – he plans to channel her thoughts and ailments through his own body at his next performance. His way of being is quite different to the typical Norwegian stereotype that is so frustrating to Margit, and the pure joy they get from being around each other is undeniable.
Both are innovators, breaking new ground to the confusion, delight and sometime ridicule of the people around them. Though they might be misunderstood elsewhere, they can always find support and love in each other’s confidence.
A heartwarming, quirky story about creative passion and the importance of moving forward both as an artist and human being, even if it is by fly-flapping in the woods on an ordinary Tuesday.