Cast
View AllLilja Lehto
as Anneli
Aava Merikanto
as Onneli
Elina Knihtilä
as Tingelstiina
Kiti Kokkonen
as Tangelstiina
Jaakko Saariluoma
as Urho Ulpukka
Jenni Kokander
as Minna Pinna
Eija Ahvo
as Mrs. Ruusupuu
Joonas Saartamo
as Mr. Vaaksanheimo
Jani Toivola
as Mayor
Aarni Rämö
as Pekki
Pietari Koskinen
as Angry plant
Arto Säteri
as Minibus driver
Johanna af Schultén
as Mrs. Rosina
Jenni Lausi
as Pinja (number 5)
Viljami Lahti
as Heikki (number 6)
Crew
Director
- Saara Cantell
Producer
- Teea Hyytiä
- Sari Lempiäinen
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Jill, Joy and the Mysterious Stranger represents a fascinating example of 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 Saara Cantell 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 2017, 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 Jill, Joy and the Mysterious Stranger took approximately 33 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 75 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 4 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2017, when this film is released:
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Jill, Joy and the Mysterious Stranger shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Wild Chicks and Life, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Jill, Joy and the Mysterious Stranger offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Babe and Super Mario Bros. explore similar territory, Jill, Joy and the Mysterious Stranger 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: January 27, 2017
- Runtime: 1h 15m
Where to Watch
