Movie Review: Sisu
Sisu, directed by Jalmari Helander, is a film that takes the audience on a wild, brutal ride through the Finnish Lapland during World War II. Set against the breathtaking yet desolate backdrop of the Nordic wilderness, this movie melds intense action with a unique historical context, delivering a viewing experience that's as gritty as it is visually stunning.
Although this movie never came to a theater near me, someone posted the full length movie on YouTube for free (with ads if you don’t have Premium). Naturally, I jumped right in!
At its core, Sisu is an action-packed tale of survival and revenge, reminiscent of the high-octane, relentless energy found in the John Wick series and the chaotic fury of Mad Max. However, it also brings its own flavor, steeped in the rich and lesser-known history of Finland during the latter days of World War II. The film's narrative is simple yet effective: a solitary former soldier, Aatami Korpi (played with stoic intensity by Jorma Tommila), discovers gold, and a LOT of it, in the wilderness only to find himself pursued by a band of ruthless Nazis as he attempts to get to the nearest town to cash out his find. What follows is a gripping cat-and-mouse game, where Aatami uses every ounce of his wits, physical strength, and an indomitable spirit—a quality captured in the Finnish concept of "sisu," which roughly translates to extraordinary perseverance in the face of adversity.
Fans of the John Wick series will find much to appreciate in Sisu. Like Keanu Reeves' portrayal of the seemingly invincible hitman, Jorma Tommila's Aatami is a man of few words but many actions. Both characters share a single-minded determination and an almost mythic reputation that precedes them. The fight choreography in Sisu is similarly brutal and meticulously staged. However, where John Wick operates in the neon-soaked underbelly of a modern cityscape, Aatami's battles are framed against the stark and sweeping landscapes of Finland. The action in Sisu is much more raw and more grounded, leaning into the ruggedness of the terrain and the primal struggle for survival.
The Mad Max comparisons are also apt, though Sisu bypasses the post-apocalyptic wasteland for the more grounded, yet equally harsh environment of wartime Lapland. The desolation of the setting serves as a silent character in its own right, much like the barren outback in George Miller's Max films. Aatami's lone journey through this unforgiving land, pursued by relentless enemies, mirrors Max Rockatansky's solitary path through the chaos and violence of his world.
What? You didn’t know Max had a last name??
Both films are deeply rooted in their protagonists' quest for survival and the indomitable will to overcome overwhelming odds. The visceral energy and stark, almost mythic storytelling in Sisu will resonate with fans of Mad Max, offering a fresh yet familiar experience.
Sisu also draws upon the rich vein of World War II narratives, with the Nazis serving as the primary antagonists. This is a well-worn trope, but Helander manages to inject it with new life through the film’s unique setting and perspective. Unlike many WWII films that focus on large-scale battles and military operations, Sisu narrows its lens to a more personal story of revenge and survival. The Nazis in Sisu are depicted with a chilling brutality that serves to heighten the stakes of Aatami’s struggle. The leader of the Nazi troop admits they have lost the war, and the gold is their way out. This personal vendetta against the Nazis gives Sisu an emotional edge, reminiscent of films like Quentin Tarantino's Inglourious Basterds, where the fight against Nazi tyranny is as much personal as it is ideological.
What sets Sisu apart from these comparisons is its deep connection to Finnish culture and history. The concept of "sisu" itself is woven into the fabric of the narrative, encapsulating the protagonist's unyielding resolve. This cultural element provides a refreshing change from the typical action movie fare, adding layers of depth and context to Aatami's relentless pursuit of his gold and his brutal clashes with the Nazis. The film’s stunning visuals, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Finnish wilderness, further anchor the story in its unique setting.
Sisu is not without its flaws. The plot, while engaging, is straightforward and sometimes predictable. The dialogue is sparse, which can occasionally make the characters feel underdeveloped. However, these are minor quibbles in the grand scheme of what the film accomplishes. Helander's direction keeps the pacing tight and the tension high, ensuring that the audience remains on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
Overall, Sisu is a thrilling addition to the action genre. It successfully blends elements from beloved action films like John Wick and Mad Max while bringing something uniquely Finnish to the table. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of well-crafted action and the timeless story of a lone hero facing insurmountable odds. It accomplishes in less time, and far less dialog, what Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga failed to do for me. For fans of intense, character-driven action films, Sisu is well worth the watch.
This story sounds so familiar. I'll know when I see it. My boyfriend will enjoy the action part and I'll like it for the scenery. Love the Scandinavian areas. We'll check it out! You're pretty good at these reviews! Thanks.
Just watched. Did not see as much pretty scenery as I had imagined there would be. Too much gore and anxiety for me. That DAMN DOG!!!