"Sisu" Movie Review

Introduction:

Set amidst the haunting backdrop of war-torn Finland in 1944, "Sisu" emerges as a wildly exhilarating exploitation war film that embraces its nationalistic undertones. Director Jalmari Helander's creation weaves together elements of exploitation cinema, spaghetti Westerns, and 1980s action flicks, paying homage to legendary works by Sergio Leone and "Rambo: First Blood." However, "Sisu" is not merely a blood-soaked spectacle but a film that delves into deeper themes, challenging historical expectations and redefining the archetypal prospector.

The Unbreakable Spirit of "Sisu":

At the heart of "Sisu" lies the enigmatic character Aatami Korpi, portrayed by the grizzled Jorma Tommila. Korpi, dressed in humble woolen attire and surrounded by his faithful horse and gray dog, engages in his routine search for gold amidst the ravages of war. The concept of "sisu" encapsulates the untranslatable essence of unyielding determination, personified by Korpi's unwavering pursuit. The discovery of a nugget ignites a series of events that challenge his resolve, as a band of Nazis crosses his path, leading to a desperate struggle for both gold and freedom.

Subverting Historical Expectations:

Helander masterfully subverts the conventional symbolism associated with prospectors, who historically represented colonization and land theft. Instead, the director paints a vivid picture of a desolate Finnish landscape, scarred by the atrocities of war. Through stunning cinematography by Kjell Lagerroos, the audience witnesses the devastation and destruction that has befallen the nation. Korpi's quest for gold takes on a different meaning; he becomes a protector of one of Finland's remaining resources, while the Nazis epitomize the colonizers seeking to plunder what little remains. This unexpected twist injects a deeply nationalistic message into the narrative, challenging the audience's preconceptions.

The Heroic Odyssey:

As the Nazis seize Korpi's gold, his journey transforms into a superhuman odyssey of unwavering determination and survival. His encounters include navigating treacherous minefields, enduring a hanging, and resorting to brutal underwater throat-slitting to escape capture. Helander's deft direction and the remarkable performance by Tommila infuse the film with a relentless energy and an exhilarating mix of tension and dark humor. The chapter titles, such as "Minefield" and "The Legend," alongside the brooding score, mirror Korpi's indomitable will.

The Intersection of Plight and Symbolism:

Amidst the chaos, the fate of Finnish women held captive by the Nazis intertwines with Korpi's quest for his stolen treasure. These women, portrayed by talented actors like Mimosa Willamo, embody resilience and strength despite their limited dialogue. Helander captures their plight, reminiscent of the resource colonization depicted in "Mad Max: Fury Road." They become symbols of struggle and resistance, evoking the difficult histories of their characters without relying on extensive backstories. Their journey aligns with the broader themes of "Sisu," further reinforcing the film's underlying messages.

Unleashing Entertainment:

While "Sisu" explores profound themes, it also revels in its nonsensical and entertaining elements. The film embraces its roots in action cinema, delivering inventive kills, snappy dialogue, and unapologetic villainy. It harks back to a time when Hollywood thrived on producing such thrilling experiences. "Sisu" embraces its absurdity and refuses to explain every plot point, allowing the audience to simply buckle up and enjoy the ride