“Sisu” is a Finnish historical action thriller released in 2022, written and directed by Jalmari Helander. It is set during the Lapland War, a conflict between Finland and Nazi Germany in the final days of World War II. The narrative follows Aatami Korpi, a former Finnish commando-turned-gold prospector, played by Jorma Tommila. While prospecting in the Lapland wilderness, Korpi discovers a significant gold deposit. His journey to transport the treasure becomes a perilous adventure when he encounters Nazi soldiers led by a brutal SS officer126.

Plot and Themes

As the Nazis retreat, conducting a scorched-earth policy, Korpi’s path becomes fraught with conflict. The film blends intense and extravagant violence with themes of survival and revenge, showcasing a fierce battle over Korpi’s gold as he faces off against the German forces. The film draws inspiration from the 1982 film “First Blood” and is influenced by the real-life Finnish sniper Simo Häyhä, known for his remarkable feats during the Winter War347.

Production and Style

Produced by Petri Jokiranta, the film was shot in 2021 near the Nuorgam village in Utsjoki, Lapland, with a budget of about €6 million. “Sisu” creatively merges the exploitation and spaghetti Western genres with strong nationalistic undertones, portraying the Nazis as invaders trying to steal Finland’s resources238. The story is told through limited dialogue and emphasizes visual storytelling, which contributes to its distinctive style, reminiscent of grindhouse cinema14.

Reception and Impact

“Sisu” received positive reviews from critics, earning a 94% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a score of 70 out of 100 on Metacritic. It grossed $14.3 million worldwide, with notable success in the United States and Canada24. The innovative action scenes and the protagonist’s nearly supernatural resolve to combat his foes have been highlights of critical acclaim. Notably, the film won several awards, including Best Film at the Sitges Film Festival, and caught the interest of video game designer Hideo Kojima, signaling its artistic impact356.

Cultural and Artistic Commentary

The word “sisu” in Finnish encapsulates a concept of extraordinary determination and grit, perfectly embodied by Aatami Korpi, who is depicted as a “one-man death squad.” The film not only entertains with its action-packed sequences but also pays homage to Finnish resilience and bravery during one of history’s most challenging periods