Cast
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Elina Pohjanpää
as Marja
Eino Kaipainen
as Juha
Veikko Uusimäki
as Uhtuan Shemeikka
Annie Mörk
as Juha's Mother
Kerstin Nylander
as Shemeikka's Mother
Assi Nortia
as Anja
Eila Pehkonen
as Kaisa (uncredited)
Elsa Sylvestersson
as Kaunotar (uncredited)
Seppo Sariola
as Hiilenpolttaja (uncredited)
Hannes Veivo
as Hiilenpolttaja (uncredited)
Matti Aro
as Hiilenpolttaja (uncredited)
Heimo Lepistö
as Hiilenpolttaja (uncredited)
Matti Lehtelä
as Hiilenpolttaja (uncredited)
Seppo Karjalainen
as Hiilenpolttaja (uncredited)
Arttu Suuntala
as Hiilenpolttaja (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- T.J. Särkkä
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Juha examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director T.J. Särkkä 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 1956, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Juha took approximately 25 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 115 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 168 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1956, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Juha shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Lolita, which focuses more on action than character development, Juha subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Rosemary's Baby and Animal Farm explore similar territory, Juha 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: November 9, 1956
- Runtime: 1h 55m
