Cast
View AllMartti Suosalo
as Risto Putkonen, "Ripa", Jontin isä
Walter Gröhn
as Joonas Putkonen, "Jontti"
Mikko Vanhala
as Länki Lehikoinen
Turo Rannema
as Pikkis
Anni Asikainen
as Eija
Henna Hakkarainen
as Inkeri, "Inkku"
Vesa-Matti Loiri
as Himanen, entinen merimies
Sulevi Peltola
as Opettaja
Pirkka-Pekka Petelius
as Ilmari Lätti, parturi
Bakary Barrow
as Bothuhin
Liisa Kantokorpi
as Vieno Carmen Putkonen
Pirjo Luoma-aho
as Eijan äiti
Maria Aro
as Längen äiti
Riitta Elstelä
as Kaupan myyjä
Johanna Kerttula
as Jontin äiti
Crew
Director
- Matti Ijäs
Writer
- Matti Ijäs
Producer
- Kari Sara
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Blindfolded 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 Matti Ijäs 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 1999, 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 Blindfolded took approximately 20 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 91 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 123 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 53 unique compositions.
- The film contains approximately 2425 individual shots.
- The screenplay went through 9 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1999, when this film was released:
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Blindfolded shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike What to Do in Case of Fire?, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Blindfolded subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Oscar and Poslední vlak explore similar territory, Blindfolded stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: March 12, 1999
- Runtime: 1h 31m