Cast
View AllFreja Teijonsalo
as Ella
Eero Milonoff
as Opettaja
Kari Ketonen
as Isä Yksi
Artturi Auvinen
as Tuukka
Aura Mikkonen
as Tiina
Emilia Paasonen
as Hanna
Armi Toivanen
as Rehtori, Paten äiti
Ville Myllyrinne
as Uuden koulun rehtori
Pamela Tola
as Martta, virastotäti
Ville Virtanen
as Virastosetä
Jyry Kortelainen
as Pate
Eetu Julin
as Pukari
Aki Laiho
as Samppa
Eerika Patrakka
as Anna "punapipoinen tyttö"
Oliver Kivi
as Äf Yksi
Crew
Director
- Taneli Mustonen
Producer
- Juha Wuolijoki
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Ella and Friends represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Adventure/Family cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Taneli Mustonen 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2012, 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 Ella and Friends took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 81 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 131 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The musical score contains over 65 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2012, when this film is released:
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- 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 Ella and Friends shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Dark Horse, which focuses more on action than character development, Ella and Friends offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like The Good Heart and Why Men Don't Listen and Women Can't Read Maps explore similar territory, Ella and Friends stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
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: December 28, 2012
- Runtime: 1h 21m
