Cast
View AllSamuli Niittymäki
as Ilmari / Elder Son
Elina Knihtilä
as Leila / Mother
Eero Aho
as Aimo / Author
Anna Paavilainen
as Karita / waitress
Eetu Julin
as Unto / Younger son
Kaisa Hela
as Lilli
Sanna-Kaisa Palo
as Siiri
Pekka Valkeejärvi
as Hannu
Antti Raivio
as Kari
Simo Tamminen
as Man at the cafe
Kim-Mikael Ahosvaara
as Helander
Severi Saarinen
as Simo
Antti Hietala
as Karita's boss
Jonas Nourisson
as Bartender
Crew
Director
- Zaida Bergroth
Writer
- Zaida Bergroth
- Jan Forsström
Producer
- Misha Jaari
- Mark Lwoff
- Elli Toivoniemi
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, The Good Son examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Zaida Bergroth brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2011, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of The Good Son took approximately 18 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.6 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 88 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 115 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 454 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 49 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2011, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While The Good Son shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Awakened, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Good Son subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Mouth to Mouth and Om Shanti Om explore similar territory, The Good Son stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 25, 2011
- Runtime: 1h 28m
- Budget: $560,000
