Cast
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Elsa Turakainen
as Loviisa Niskavuori
Mirjam Novero
as Ilona Niskavuori
Tauno Palo
as Juhani Mattila / Juhani Niskavuori
Martti Katajisto
as Paavo Niskavuori
Leila Väyrynen
as Lilli Niskavuori
Martta Kinnunen
as Telefooni-Sandra
Hillevi Lagerstam
as Martta Santala
Joel Rinne
as Dr. Artturi Santala
Artturi Laakso
as Kaarle Niskavuori
Urho Lahti
as Salminen
Aarne Laine
as Jokinen
Sylva Rossi
as Miina
Anton Soini
as Rissanen
Rauha Rentola
as Malviina Mattila
Kunto Karapää
as Pharmacist
Crew
Director
- Edvin Laine
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Niskavuori taistelee 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 Edvin Laine 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 1957, 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 Niskavuori taistelee took approximately 15 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 96 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 141 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The film contains approximately 1536 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1957, when this film was released:
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and culture.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Niskavuori taistelee shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Jejich den, which focuses more on action than character development, Niskavuori taistelee subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The World of Sholom Aleichem and A Few Good Men explore similar territory, Niskavuori taistelee 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: November 15, 1957
- Runtime: 1h 36m
