Sisu (film)

Sisu is a 2022 Finnish historical action war film written and directed by Jalmari Helander. The film stars Jorma Tommila as a solitary gold prospector in Finnish Lapland during World War II who attempts to secure his loot while evading a ruthless Nazi death squad.

The film is noted for its extreme violence and practical effects. Its title, "sisu," is a Finnish concept loosely translated as stoic determination, tenacity of purpose, grit, courage, resilience, and hardiness. This concept plays a central role in the protagonist's actions and survival throughout the film. The narrative focuses on Aatami Korpi (Tommila), a former commando, as he confronts the Nazi soldiers after they attempt to steal his gold.

"Sisu" premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2022 and was released in Finland in January 2023. It received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its action sequences, cinematography, and Tommila's performance. The film also gained international recognition and success, particularly for its intense and unrelenting portrayal of violence within a historical context.