Sisu

Directed by Jalmari Helander Written by Jalmari Helander Produced by Petri Jokiranta Starring Jorma Tommila, Aksel Hennie, Jack Doolan, Mimosa Willamo, Onni Tommila Release date September 23, 2022 Running time 91 minutes Country Finland Language Finnish

Overview

"Sisu" is a 2022 Finnish historical action thriller directed by Jalmari Helander. The film stars Jorma Tommila, Aksel Hennie, Jack Doolan, Mimosa Willamo, and Onni Tommila. Set during the Lapland War in the final days of World War II, it follows a prospector who discovers gold in the Lapland wilderness and is pursued by a Nazi death squad.

Plot Summary

The story centers around Aatami Korpi, a solitary prospector, who unearths a rich vein of gold in the remote wilderness of Lapland. His dreams of a peaceful future are threatened when he encounters a Nazi patrol led by the ruthless SS officer Bruno Helldorf. The Nazis attempt to seize his gold, leading to a relentless and violent confrontation.

Throughout the film, Aatami utilizes his survival skills and military training to fend off the Nazis, embarking on a brutal journey of retribution. The narrative is marked by intense action sequences, showcasing Aatami's determination and resilience against overwhelming odds.

Cast and Characters

Jorma Tommila as Aatami Korpi: The film's protagonist, a former commando turned prospector.
Aksel Hennie as Bruno Helldorf: The antagonist, an SS officer.
Jack Doolan as Wolf: A member of the Nazi patrol.
Mimosa Willamo as Aino: A captive who becomes an ally to Aatami.
Onni Tommila as Schütze: A young Nazi soldier.

Production

"Sisu" was shot on location in Lapland, capturing the stark and desolate beauty of the region. The film draws inspiration from spaghetti westerns and combines historical elements with a fictional revenge story. The title "Sisu" refers to a Finnish concept of stoic determination, bravery, and resilience, themes that are central to the film.

Release and Reception

The film premiered at the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival, receiving positive reviews for its action sequences and storytelling. It grossed $7.3 million in the United States and Canada, and $7 million in other territories, totaling $14.3 million worldwide. Critics praised the film's visual style and pacing, with particular emphasis on Jorma Tommila's performance.

Box Office Performance

"Sisu" was released in the United States alongside other major films and made $1.4 million on its first day. It went on to debut to $3.3 million, finishing eighth at the box office. The film's gritty and violent approach appealed to action enthusiasts, contributing to its commercial success.

Critical Response

The film holds a 94% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with an average rating of 7.6/10. It is described as "narratively lean and deliriously gory," offering satisfaction to action aficionados. Metacritic assigned it a score of 70 out of 100, indicating "generally favorable" reviews. Audiences also gave the film an 80% positive score on PostTrak, with many recommending it.

Themes and Analysis

"Sisu" explores themes of survival, resilience, and vengeance. Aatami's journey is a testament to the Finnish spirit of perseverance against insurmountable odds. The film's brutal and visceral action sequences are balanced with moments of quiet intensity, highlighting the protagonist's solitary struggle.

Conclusion

"Sisu" stands out as a compelling action thriller that blends historical context with a gripping revenge narrative. Its strong performances, particularly by Jorma Tommila, and its unique setting in the Lapland wilderness make it a memorable film in the action genre. The film's exploration of the concept of "sisu" resonates deeply, providing both thrilling entertainment and a powerful message of resilience.

Sisu (2022 Flim)