This is not the definitive Finnish movie, but it does have an essence that is undeniably Finland in nature. I loved this movie for the feel of Finnish life and Janne Hainonen's ability to tell a story. I am more impressed by his abilities to create a story and then put it on film than the beautiful Finnish landscape, which I both love and miss. This story follows four youths who are spending possibly their last summer together because they realize their lives are about to take them in different directions. The main character, Jenni, is well acted and brings a perfect sense of fear of the future we all had upon growing up. The supporting cast performed excellently, especially Pasi Saarinen and Kaisa Hämäläinen as they interacted with each other. Another fabulous layer to this movie is the soundtrack and "Apupyörät pois" written and performed by Jeremias Ijäs is a great song in any language. The story is easy to follow even if you do not understand Finnish (it has English Subtitles), but it helps if you understand the culture. I recommend this film to anyone who likes looking at another culture and/or just like watching a great student film. To me the mark of a great director is what he leaves out. Janne has a sense for what works and what does not. Watch the deleted scenes and you will know what I mean.
Reviews
3 Reviews
The Best Two Years
(2004)
Great movie if you served overseas
30 March 2005
Some of the acting was forced and not up to mainstream movies, but it is one of the best independent films I ever viewed. The culture shock experienced by the "greenie" is true to life and quite amusing if you actually lived through it yourself. The Elders fighting over the mail and their mood swings based on its arrival was another valid experience. The girl friends "waiting" back home was another issue I found amusing. I guess it is just a part of the whole mission experience captured in this delightful film. The scenery and soundtrack were fabulous and I expect to purchase the soundtrack soon. I was also impressed with the director's ability to tell the story without being too syrupy. I expect Scott S. Anderson's next project to be even better. An out-standing job!
Lone Star State of Mind
(2002)
This movie is pure Fun!
19 October 2004
This was such a gem of a find. My son and I rented it after seeing its trailer on two other movies. It looked funny, but I was not prepared for such a great piece of work. The story had twists and turns and it was rich with irony and wit. The acting matched the script to a tee. The characters were over the top where it was necessary and subdued when needed. "Tinker" (Ryan Hurst) was priceless and stole the show. Kudos all around to the cast and crew for creating such a great movie and making me laugh. This is a great movie to show to friends. I own it and cannot wait to show it to a few more of my friends. Everyone that has seen it so far have loved it. Get it and Watch it!
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