Restless

A few weeks after this film was released, I had the opportunity to see it in Finland. Although it was subtitled and I don't speak very fluent Finnish, my Finnish friend, Kaisa, only had to translate a few questionable parts. I was very impressed with the quality of acting, directing, and cinematography. It appeared very equivocal to our lustrious Hollywood films. As I was visiting Helsinki in March, it was thrilling to see how Finland looked in the summer.

Being a typical "prude" American in regards to showing televised nudity, I was a little surprised at the extent of the sexual scenes. Luckily, I was introduced to Finland's policy regarding nudity before I saw this film. (Ever been to a public sauna in Helsinki?)

Even without the details of the dialogue, I greatly enjoyed the story. Kaisa told me that this film remains very controversial in Finland as some scenes give a poor portrayal of Finland's modern culture. The main racey scenes included: The bar scene showing Finnish women as VERY forward, and nothing short of...well..sluts; several scenes portraying adultery as morally justified; the bachelor party that ends up an orgy with two VERY young girls (maybe 12?); and the fact that the main character ends up with a female priest that cheats on her boyfriend!! Nevertheless, I think it did a good job portraying the loneliness 20-something individuals feel, even when they are "with" others. I think Mikko Nousianinen (II), Ari, did a great job portraying the mixture of emotional feelings in his position...his several positions.

In closing, I would like to say that this movie accomplished what it wanted to, and I will not hesitate to purchase a copy when it becomes available. Does anyone know when that is? Because I would really like to see this movie in an English subtitled version.

Amazing movie that really delves deep into themes of love, religion, compassion, friendship, existence, and the human soul. I admit I gained a real appreciation for the romantic elements of the Finnish language after seeing this. I put the movie on par with most of Hollywood's best love stories, but it also has an existentialist aspect making it similar to other great movies such as "Run Lola Run". The cinematography is also quite excellent and there is a real sense of a connection between the characters and their very secure and comfortable society. The natural beauty of Finland is captured perfectly and it almost adds an aura of calm to the film. I recommend this to any serious movie lovers and its a 10/10 for me.

It was nice to see a Mac Ahlbeg film made in the North after all those years. Even though he is not the director of the film it is him one first think of because he made a lot of soft-focus romp during the 70's both in Sweden and Denmark.

Well, for people living in Sweden it is a film which confirm the misconception they have about Finish people: drinking way too much directly from the bottle, bad language and sex-hungry women always looking for a thrill.

I saw this on DVD with English subtitles (my Finnish is very limited).

Levottomat (The Restless) explores what happens when a wild card is introduced into a circle of friends, follow the mirth and merriment as Ari, a young medical doctor, weaves a path of emotional destruction amongst a group of six student friends in Turku.

The period covers a few months in Ari's life: his mother is terminally ill, he is unwilling or unable to make any emotional ties with any of his one night stands, then he meets Tiina... and her friends.

There are many aspects of Finnish life which are seen in this film, the drinking, Juhannus (midsummer), summer cottages, sauna culture etc., young people lacking experience in relationships... all of which are peculiar to the Nordic countries. You also see people in their mid-20s gallivanting around like freshers... Finland is not only a land of the midnight Sun, but also the land of the eternal student.

Be warned, there is a large amount of nudity and sex in this film, which to most people would seem pornographic, really it's not, well not all of it... Finns have a rather unique outlook on the naked body, perhaps due to their Sauna culture.

Well worth watching.

I just saw the film "Levottomat" and I think it's marvellous! I recommend it to everyone, although it may be better if you understand Finnish. Mikko Nousiainen is good-looking, yes, but also a great actor. The other actors and actresses are very good too, but Mikko is the BEST! His character Ari is so smart and seems so peaceful out, but inside so restless! The movie was very beautiful, both indoor and outdoor shots were filmed very beautifully. You should all go and watch this movie!!!