Nyrkki

Very good show with complicated layers of storylines. Told like the viewer is reading a great novel. Told slowly and meticulously, without any wasted time/energy, and developed perfectly. Top show for sure. Constant action. Don't look away, or you're sure to miss something.

I really know nothing about Finnish post war history. I have a vague knowledge of the Soviet invasions in the 1940s but that is about it so this cold war thriller is new territory.

A slow burn series that drew me in bit by bit and with quite a number of unexpected twists.

Who are the real heroes in this? That is perhaps the most difficult question of all.

But atmospheric design and music, quality acting, a script that seamlessly moves between Finnish, Russian, English and Swedish is a fine mix.

Recommended for lovers of cold war spy thrillers. But be warned, it is quite violent and explicit.

I enjoyed this, but you have to concentrate. If you are not familiar with Finnish/Russian history and politics it is difficult to understand a lot of what is going on, so I would recommend a binge watch. The best Cold War thriller I have seen for many a year.

The Finns are a dark and twisted people. A romantic comedy from Finland is dark. It is a barren and cold place.

This is real film noir, as good as it gets.

Perhaps the best spy flick I have ever seen? Real trade craft, not the "Good Guys" always win, car chases and explosions. There are no good guys in the real world. Or in 1956 Helsinki.

Finnish title is Nyrkki which means Fist, as in hand, so a bit of a play on words translated to English. Since it was funded by BBC and SBC Australia, the Finns were having a go. Dark and funny those Finns. >FIST was the Finnish Security Intelligence Service now known as SUPO. Helsinki and Berlin were Ground Zero during the Cold War. This film gives you that feel of uncertainty.

Shadow Lines draws a hypothetical plot based on real world events that took place in 1956. The height of the cold war. Historically accurate, amazing acting, breathtaking direction and cinematography.

Subtle and suspenseful. This is a gem. With all characters, Finns, Russians, and Americans speaking their native tongues and subtitles this is not a casual watch. Rather an immersive experience.

Not to be watched if the kids are running amok, the phone is ringing or you are distracted. You will miss all the subtlety. Rainy day and nothing on the agenda? Get the popcorn, the dogs and the blankets. Always cold in Finland!

If you're not a Finland history literate person and/or a follower of '50s West vs. East (e.g. Mostly U.s. & USSR) cold war goin'ons then take notes early on as to who's who. A lot of characters; a lot of scene jumps; a lot of not knowing allegiances.