- “The Winter War” (Talvisota, 1989): This Finnish war film depicts the events of the Winter War between Finland and the Soviet Union during World War II. It portrays the courage and resilience of the Finnish people against overwhelming odds.
- “Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale” (Rare Exports, 2010): This dark fantasy film centres around the legend of Santa Claus as a sinister force, set in the snowy landscapes of Lapland. It offers a and twisted take on the Christmas mythology.
- “The Man Without a Past” (Mies vailla menneisyyttä, 2002): Directed by Aki Kaurismäki, this award-winning film tells the story of a man who loses his memory after being attacked and begins a new life on the margins of Helsinki society.
- “Lapland Odyssey” (Napapiirin sankarit, 2010): This comedy follows the misadventures of a group of friends as they embark on a journey across Lapland to find a mythical digital antenna. It offers a humorous take on Finnish culture and traditions.
- “Drifting Clouds” (Kauas pilvet karkaavat, 1996): Another film by Aki Kaurismäki, this bittersweet drama explores the struggles of a couple who face unemployment and financial difficulties in Helsinki. It delves into themes of resilience, hope, and the human spirit.
- “The Kalevala” by Elias Lönnrot: Although not a novel in the traditional sense, “The Kalevala” is an epic poem that collects traditional Finnish folklore and mythological stories. It is considered a national epic and offers insights into the cultural heritage of Finland.
- “The Unknown Soldier” by Väinö Linna: This war novel, set in Finland during World War II, follows a group of Finnish soldiers fighting against the Soviet Union. It explores the experiences and challenges faced by the soldiers on the front lines.
- “The Year of the Hare” by Arto Paasilinna: This humorous novel tells the story of a man who leaves his mundane life in Helsinki behind to embark on a journey with a wild hare. The book offers a satirical portrayal of Finnish society and has become a classic.
- “Troll: A Love Story” by Johanna Sinisalo: Blending fantasy and contemporary themes, this novel is set in a world where trolls exist alongside humans. It explores themes of love, identity, and acceptance, set against the backdrop of Finnish landscapes.
- “The Summer Book” by Tove Jansson: Although primarily known for her beloved Moomin stories, Tove Jansson’s “The Summer Book” is a novel that tells the story of a little girl and her grandmother spending a summer on a tiny island in the Finnish archipelago. It beautifully captures the simplicity and beauty of Finnish nature.
WANDERLIST: Finland in books and on film
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