Unknown Soldier (2017) (Tuntematon Sotilas in Finnish) is a Finnish war drama directed by Aku Louhimies, based on Väinö Linna’s renowned novel. The film follows a Finnish machine gun company during the Continuation War (1941–1944) against the Soviet Union, depicting the harsh realities of battle from the perspective of ordinary soldiers. Unlike previous adaptations, this version presents a raw and unfiltered look at the psychological and physical toll of war.
The movie stars Eero Aho as Rokka, a skilled and fearless soldier, along with Johannes Holopainen and Jussi Vatanen in key roles. Their performances add emotional depth to the film, portraying soldiers with different personalities and beliefs who must unite to survive the brutal conditions of war. The cinematography captures both the beauty of Finland’s forests and the devastating impact of battle, making the film visually striking while staying grounded in realism.
Unknown Soldier was Finland’s most expensive film production at the time, with a budget of approximately €7 million. It became one of the highest-grossing Finnish films ever, widely praised for its historical accuracy, intense battle sequences, and compelling character portrayals. The film resonated strongly with Finnish audiences, as the Continuation War remains a significant part of the country’s history and identity.
Beyond its commercial success, the film received critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling and immersive direction. By focusing on the soldiers’ humanity rather than glorifying combat, Unknown Soldier delivers a poignant and harrowing war experience. It stands as one of the most important Finnish war films, offering a deeply moving portrayal of the sacrifices made during one of the nation’s most defining conflicts.