Released in 2017, The Unknown Soldier (Tuntematon sotilas), directed by Aku Louhimies, is a gripping Finnish war epic adapted from Väinö Linna’s iconic 1954 novel, a landmark of Finnish literature. The film brings to life the brutal realities of the Continuation War (1941–1944) between Finland and the Soviet Union, as witnessed through the eyes of a tight-knit group of Finnish soldiers. As the third adaptation of Linna’s novel, following the celebrated versions of 1955 and 1985, this iteration delivers a fresh, visceral portrayal that deeply resonates with modern audiences, while honoring the enduring legacy of the original story.
The film follows a Finnish Army machine gun company plunged into the unforgiving frontlines of the war against Soviet forces. At its heart are the intertwined stories of soldiers like the resilient Corporal Rokka (Eero Aho), the idealistic Lieutenant Kariluoto (Johannes Holopainen), and the sharp-tongued, cynical Corporal Koskela (Jussi Vatanen). Through their perspectives, the film masterfully explores the raw emotional landscape of war—courage, camaraderie, fear, and hopelessness—as they battle not just for survival, but for the bonds that keep them human amid the relentless chaos.
The film delivers a stark and unrelenting portrayal of war, capturing both the physical and psychological toll it exacts on the soldiers. The battle sequences are intense, visceral, and meticulously choreographed, plunging the audience into the raw chaos and fear of frontline combat. Beyond the gripping action, the film delves into deeper, thought-provoking themes of patriotism, sacrifice, and the immense human cost of warfare, offering a sobering reflection on the true nature of conflict.
