“Sisu” (2022) is a Finnish action-war film directed by Jalmari Helander, best known for his work on the cult hit Rare Exports. Sisu is a brutal, fast-paced, and visually striking film that combines elements of action, war drama, and survival thriller. It’s set during the closing days of World War II and stands out for its minimal dialogue, gripping action sequences, and unique story.

Plot Summary:

The story takes place in the Lapland wilderness of Finland, in 1944, as Nazi forces are retreating toward Germany, leaving destruction in their wake. The central character is Aatami Korpi (played by Jorma Tommila), a hardened, solitary former Finnish soldier who has given up the war and lives in isolation, searching for gold in the rugged wilderness.

• Aatami’s Discovery: After years of prospecting, Aatami finally strikes gold. His newfound fortune, however, quickly attracts the attention of a retreating Nazi platoon, led by the sadistic SS officer Bruno Helldorf (played by Aksel Hennie). They see an opportunity to steal the gold for themselves.
• One-Man Army: What follows is a relentless game of cat and mouse, with Aatami revealing himself to be far more than a simple prospector. A one-man killing machine, he takes on the Nazi platoon using his resourcefulness, guerrilla tactics, and extreme survival skills, carving a path of destruction through the enemy forces. The film is driven by intense action scenes as Aatami single-handedly battles overwhelming odds.

Themes and Symbolism:

• The Meaning of “Sisu”: The title of the film, “Sisu,” refers to a Finnish concept that embodies stoic determination, grit, and perseverance in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds. Aatami represents the embodiment of this spirit, refusing to give up no matter the challenge.
• Survival and Revenge: At its core, Sisu is a story about survival, revenge, and resilience. Aatami’s relentless pursuit of justice against the Nazis who seek to take his gold serves as a metaphor for the broader Finnish resistance against foreign invaders during the war.
• Minimal Dialogue, Maximum Impact: The film features minimal dialogue, allowing the visuals and action to take center stage. This approach gives the film a raw, visceral energy, with much of the storytelling conveyed through Aatami’s actions and the bleak, desolate landscape of Lapland.

Visual and Action Style:

• Gritty and Violent Action: Sisu is unapologetically violent, featuring gritty, bloody action sequences that highlight Aatami’s brutal efficiency in dispatching his enemies. The combat is grounded and brutal, blending realism with over-the-top moments that lend the film a stylized edge.
• Cinematography: The Finnish wilderness is captured in stunning detail, with wide shots of the rugged, snow-covered terrain adding to the film’s atmosphere. The natural beauty of the landscape contrasts sharply with the violence that unfolds within it.

Critical Reception:

Sisu received praise for its unique blend of action and survival elements, with particular attention to Jorma Tommila’s commanding performance as the silent but deadly Aatami. The film was celebrated for its minimalist approach to dialogue, creative action choreography, and the way it captured the relentless spirit of its protagonist.

While some critics noted that the plot was simple and the characters lacked depth, these elements were overshadowed by the film’s strong visual storytelling, action, and the central theme of perseverance against all odds.

Conclusion:

Sisu (2022) is a visceral, action-packed war film that delivers intense thrills through its minimalist narrative and stunning visuals. By focusing on the raw, indomitable spirit of its protagonist and combining that with brutal, well-executed action sequences, Sisu offers a unique take on the survival and revenge genres set against the backdrop of World War II. The film’s relentless energy and unapologetic violence make it a standout for fans of gritty, high-stakes action films.