Cast
Antti Reini
Jussi Vares
Eppu Salminen
Juhani Luusalmi
Jasper Pääkkönen
Kyypakkaus
Maria Järvenhelmi
Anna Huttunen
Ilkka Heiskanen
Markku Hautavainio
Katja Kiuru
Inga Näs
Carl-Kristian Rundman
Pauli Kontio
Matti Onnismaa
Pastori Alanen
Mikko Leppilampi
Ruuhio
Rebecca Viitala
Annika Kontio
Petri Manninen
Torsten Rapp
Ari Wirta
Voitto "Vode" Fjäder
Ilkka Villi
Jesus Maria Lobo
Panu Vauhkonen
Leevi Rönkkö
Sökö Kaukoranta
Korsio
Crew
Director
- Lauri Törhönen
Producer
- Jukka Helle
- Markus Selin
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Vares: Garter Snake 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 Lauri Törhönen 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 Vares: Garter Snake took approximately 18 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 97 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 145 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
- The costume department created over 500 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The screenplay went through 10 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2011, 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 Vares: Garter Snake 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 Woman in Me, which focuses more on action than character development, Vares: Garter Snake subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Amerika and Marketa Lazarová explore similar territory, Vares: Garter Snake stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: August 5, 2011
- Runtime: 1h 37m
