Sisu is a 2022 historical war action film, masterfully written and directed by Jalmari Helander and produced by Petri Jokiranta. Featuring standout performances by Jorma Tommila, Aksel Hennie, Jack Doolan, Mimosa Willamo, and Onni Tommila, the film is set during the Lapland War between Finland and Nazi Germany at the climax of World War II. The story follows a legendary Finnish Army commando-turned-gold prospector who fights for survival against a ruthless Waffen-SS platoon led by a brutal and corrupt officer. Originally planned as a science fiction comedy project, Helander shifted focus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, bringing Sisu to life as an international co-production between Finland and the United States. Filmed in 2021 near Nuorgam village in Utsjoki, Lapland, the production had a budget of approximately €6 million ($6.5 million). Drawing inspiration from the 1982 film First Blood and the real-life Finnish sniper Simo Häyhä, Sisu delivers intense action, historical depth, and gripping survival storytelling. Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions secured global distribution outside the Nordic region, while Lionsgate handled North American rights. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival’s Midnight Madness series on 9 September 2022 and officially released in Finland on 27 January 2023. The U.S. release followed on 28 April 2023, earning critical acclaim for its thrilling action sequences and compelling narrative. Its sequel, Sisu: Road to Revenge, premiered on 21 November 2025..
Plot Summary
In late 1944, during the Lapland War, Aatami Korpi searches for gold in the wilderness of Lapland with only his horse and loyal Bedlington Terrier. Discovering a rich gold deposit, he journeys toward Rovaniemi, only to encounter a notorious Waffen-SS platoon led by Obersturmführer Bruno Helldorf. After surviving an ambush and demonstrating unmatched combat skills, Aatami becomes the hunted. The story follows his relentless pursuit of survival, strategic guerrilla warfare, and epic confrontations that blend historical warfare with high-octane action. Aatami's legend grows as he battles German soldiers, outsmarts traps, and protects innocent captives, ultimately reclaiming his gold and triumphing against overwhelming odds. The film combines visceral combat, tactical warfare, and human resilience, making it a standout historical war action thriller.
Box Office Performance
Sisu premiered alongside titles such as Big George Foreman and Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret in the United States and Canada. Opening in approximately 900 theaters, the film grossed $1.4 million on its first day and $3.3 million in its debut weekend, ultimately earning $7.3 million in North America and $7 million internationally. Worldwide, Sisu achieved a total box office revenue of $14.3 million.
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