Epic Finnish Action Flick That Will Blow Your Mind - A Must-Watch!
Experience the thrilling intensity of Sisu, a Finnish action film that captivates with its raw power and gripping storyline This must-see movie is a testament to bravery and resilience Don't miss out on this adrenaline-pumping cinematic masterpiece!
Violence in storytelling holds a neutral position, as it neither inherently improves nor worsens a story. Its effectiveness varies depending on the context. If an author aims to maintain sympathy for their protagonist while incorporating excessive violence, they must carefully select their target. Sisu, in this case, becomes an ideal choice. Taking action against Nazis and having their victims retaliate justifies almost any form of violence.
Writer and director Jalmari Helander made a name for himself with his debut film, the 2010 horror comedy Rare Exports, which centered around the holiday season. He followed this success with Big Game in 2014, a 90s-inspired action-packed adventure featuring his nephew Onni Tommila along with Samuel L. Jackson. His latest film, Sisu, takes a deeply personal approach as it delves into Finnish nationalism, using it as a tool to critique and challenge the negative aspects of nationalism that many dislike.
What Is Sisu About?
Finland's role during the Second World War was a complex one. Prior to the outbreak of the conflict, the Soviet Union invaded Finland, leading to the brief Winter War. Over a year later, the Nazis launched their own attack on the USSR, resulting in the Soviet bombing of Finnish cities. In response, Finland formed an alliance with Germany in the name of self-defense, known as the Continuation War. In 1943 and 1944, peace negotiations took place, leading Finland to sign a treaty with the Allied Powers. This agreement ensured that if Finland expelled the Nazis, the USSR would not interfere further. However, tensions arose during the Lapland Conflict as the German forces resisted leaving. Set in late 1944, "Sisu" portrays the people of Finland enduring the vengeful rage of the spurned Nazis, amid which the story's hero, Aatami Korpi, emerges.
A retired commando who suffered the loss of his family during the Winter War, Korpi becomes a feared and formidable individual, capable of single-handedly taking on the entire Soviet military. Now residing in the peaceful wilderness of Lapland, accompanied solely by his loyal dog and horse, Korpi works as a prospector and stumbles upon a significant gold deposit. As he embarks on his journey to the bank, he encounters Nazis who force him into a life-or-death battle to protect both himself and his newfound treasure. In the midst of these conflicts, Korpi discovers that the Nazis have kidnapped a number of Finnish women. Unveiling his dark military past, Korpi is compelled to fight his way through the remaining Wehrmacht forces. Possessing great strength and prowess, his quest is filled with thrilling and epic encounters.
What Makes Sisu So Good?
Sisu presents a fresh cultural perspective that encompasses all the elements of the modern Wolfenstein games. The audience has the option of immersing themselves in the intricate storytelling or simply enjoying the thrilling action. Although the film delves into a rich historical background, its main attraction lies in its captivating spectacle. Even those less interested in World War II history will still find it to be an outstanding action-packed thriller.
Dialogue is minimal in the film, with the characters, landscape, and even the victims acting as symbolic and visual storytellers. The word "sisu," with no direct translation, encapsulates the concept of unwavering determination in the face of insurmountable challenges. It holds great significance in describing Finland's national character and plays a vital role in portraying the main character's indomitable spirit.
Similar to other action films, Sisu showcases a seemingly unstoppable protagonist who possesses superhuman strength, agility, and courage. The Nazis, known for their brutality, are relentlessly dealt with, though it is never enough. Drawing inspiration from Quentin Tarantino's acclaimed alternate history film, Inglourious Basterds, director Jalmari Helander skillfully incorporates various cinematic influences. The film's cinematography and its silent yet powerful protagonist pay homage to Sergio Leone's work. Additionally, it bears resemblance to Ted Kotcheff's First Blood, as both Aatami Korpi and John Rambo are war veterans seeking solace in the wilderness while confronting the destructive forces represented by their adversaries.
What Is Sisu's Rotten Tomatoes Score?
With a remarkable 94% positive rating from critics on Rotten Tomatoes, Sisu has quickly become a favorite among audiences, receiving a respectable 88% score. Comparable to popular action flicks like John Wick, reviewers commend the film for its simplicity, thrilling spectacle, and uncomplicated yet entertaining violence. However, there are a few dissenting voices who express their dissatisfaction with the film's repetitive structure.
Sisu, however, surpasses expectations by offering more than just a thrilling rollercoaster ride. It possesses hidden layers of depth that make it truly remarkable. Even if it were just 90 minutes of mindless Mortal Kombat Fatalities aimed at Nazis, it would still captivate audiences. Sisu achieves a great deal with minimal dialogue, reserved cinematography, and limited character development, providing the perfect canvas for Korpi's blood-soaked storytelling. It sets a benchmark for directors to create exceptional action films that showcase their own national heroes. As the world views Finnish action through the lens of Sisu, it becomes an outstanding representative of the genre. This masterful blend of elements is bound to delight any action enthusiast.
