Pahat pojat

Finnish high-morality and spiritual twister in childhood might do this like horrible creatures as the father (Vesa-Matti Loiri) was. In the group of believers this movie might get up against-spirit. They might think: "No, hell, we aren't like those twisted-human-monster are!!" But I can say: "Yes, yes some of believers are." I can say 'cause I'm one of 'em. But that thing that some are twister was in the movie quite well shown. This father was in psychiatric-hospital and he HAVE to has many problems with his mental-health too. So have to give forgiven.

It may irritate Finnish viewers by its un-Finnishness, perhaps it was intended by the creators. I guess they were trying to appeal to American and wider Europe and, in my view, they succeeded. This movie may particularly appeal by its unamerican flavour to the audiences used to American movies. The father of the boys comes across as quite a menacing character who at the end gets what he deserves. A bit simple but don't expect any depth from this movie. It is though based on a true story doesn't make an impression to be "real" It is just pure entertainment. Not each of the boys is equally well developed as a character but the main the youngest one, who has a separate story line, falling in love, is OK.

Although I am a Finn, I've never liked much of any Finnish films. That is why I didn't have high expectations about this one. To my surprise, this movie wasn't only good, it was actually really great.

This movie is a true story about four brothers known as "Eura's Daltons" who don't use alcohol, don't smoke nor curse. Still they have made over hundred robberies. These brothers have a sadistic and schizophrenic father "Joppe pappa" who isn't exactly the best father figure there is.

This movie manages to be fun and yet tragic at the same time. The movie manages to be interesting the whole running time and there aren't any boring moments. All the actors do their job very well and I especially liked the performance of Vesa-Matti Loiri as "Joppe pappa".

It might be difficult to see this movie in foreign countries like in the USA but if you have a chance to see this movie then I recommend you to see it. Hopefully the movie will premiere in other countries as well, at least in Sweden and Norway.

Pahat Pojat (Bad Boys translated in english) was marketed as a bad ass action movie here in Finland. And the gayish poster (the four lead male characters posing topless with their sweaty sixpacks shining) hinted of the toughness to come. First, the four men turned out to be complete idiots in the film (they rob a safe full of cash, but spent most of it on lottery tickets). Second, the hollywoodish action scenes (few and far apart) REALLY don't fit too well mixed into the conventional finnish filmmaking. They feel like fishes out of water. There's one very good thing though.. Vesa-Matti Loiri playing the boys' father. The best turn he has ever made in his career and he didn't even get nominated for a Jussi (local Oscars). Truly a shame. So all of you foreingers.. don't believe the hype. Try to find films like "Rukajärven tie", "Nousukausi" or "Joki" instead.

** / *****

I am one of those who NEVER go to see a Finnish movie, except Rukajarven tie, I was very positively surprised of Pahat Pojat. The story is entertaining, and mr Loiri does a great job beeing quite a slimeball. The boys without their shirts is an extra bonus!