Lapland War

by Aku Louhimies

This World War II epic from the makers of the international box office hit Unknown Soldier examines the moral and emotional toll when wartime loyalties fracture and former allies are forced to turn against each other.

Finland, 1944. As the Second World War nears its end, young Finnish soldiers Heikki and Pauli take their first steps toward adulthood. Amid the unforgiving expanse of the Arctic Circle, and despite the rising tension at the front, friendships form and forbidden love blossoms between local Finnish women and the German soldiers stationed in the region. Interpreter Saara Vainio leaves her husband for German officer Duisberg, defying both convention and country. When news of Finland's armistice with the Soviet Union reaches the front lines, everything changes: Heikki and Pauli are forced to turn their weapons on those they once fought beside, and Saara and other women must choose between love and loyalty — between the men they care for and the nation they belong to. Their stories intertwine as each character seeks forgiveness.

Genre / Language / Length
Drama / German, Finnish / 125 minutes
Original title
Lapin Sota
directed by
Aku Louhimies (UNKOWN SOLDIER, CONFLICT)
director of photography
Ari Viren (UKNOWN SOLDIER)
screenplay by
Antti TuuriAku Louhimies
produced by
Backmann & Hoderoff
Cast
  • Volker Bruch (BABYLON BERLIN, GENERATION WAR)
  • Peter Franzén (VIKINGS, THE GUNMAN)
  • Sannah Nedergard (YELLOW SULPHUR SKY)
  • Luukas Niskanen (SAVELA)

Press Quotes

“The Best Finnish War Film to Date. Aku Louhimies' Lapland War brings the devastation of the Lapland War vividly to the screen, combining explosive battle scenes, breathtaking northern landscapes and deeply human performances.This is a landmark film, destined to be remembered for generations to come."
FINLAND TODAY

“A mature and moving epic, highly accomplished, with an exceptionally strong direction of actors. A war classic worthy of The Unknown Soldier.”
JUSTSIKS

“The answer is yes. The film is downright brilliant and is destined to become a classic. Quality and meticulous craftsmanship are evident throughout. The cast is a good mix of fresh faces and seasoned veterans. Volker Bruch is a world-class draw.”
MAASEUDUN TULEVAISUUS

“Finnish films have rarely dared to show this sordid side of Finnish soldiers before. Louhimies depicts the situation from a distance and without sensationalism. Cinematographer Ari Virem also captures Lapland's magnificent nature in the film. Ari Virem and editor Benjamin Mercer ensure that these restrained emotions hold the viewer's attention throughout the entire film. Louhimies's approach is a compelling blend of realism and hope."
ILTA SANOMAT

"The Lapland War, long overlooked on screen, finally gets the treatment it deserves in Aku Louhimies's new film."
TURUN SANOMAT

"Luukas Niskanen, who is the same age as the character, is captivating as Heikki Ojala from Kauhava."
KESKIPOHJANMAA

"Aku Louhimies and his team have built a sweeping war epic that looks and sounds magnificent."
SAVON SANOMAT

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