Tuntematon sotilas (2017) Watch Online Free

The film follows Finnish army machine gun company in Continuation War against Soviet Union, 1941–1944. Based on Väinö Linna’s best selling novel Tuntematon Sotilas (The Unknown Soldier) and the novel’s uncensored version, Sotaromaani (A War Novel).

The Unknown Soldier (2017), directed by Aku Louhimies, is a harrowing and visually stunning adaptation of Väinö Linna’s 1954 novel Tuntematon sotilas, set during World War II. The film chronicles the experiences of Finnish soldiers on the Eastern Front between 1941-1944, capturing the brutality, camaraderie, and trauma of war through a gritty and realistic lens.

The story focuses on a group of soldiers in the Finnish army who fight against the Soviet Union, particularly during the Battle of Tali-Ihantala, the largest battle fought on Finnish soil. The soldiers come from different walks of life, each with their personal backgrounds and differing views on the war. As they face harrowing combat, their experiences reveal the dehumanizing nature of war, where survival becomes the primary concern, and ideals of heroism or glory seem increasingly irrelevant.

The film opens by introducing a variety of characters, including Antero Antti Rokka, a seasoned and pragmatic corporal, and Jorma Kariluoto, an idealistic officer who believes in the honor of battle. Throughout the film, these characters, along with others like Koskela and Hietanen, undergo significant personal transformations as they confront death, betrayal, and loss in the midst of war. The battle scenes are intense and visceral, with the cinematography capturing the stark, unforgiving environment of war. The film balances these intense moments with quieter, more reflective sequences that explore the human cost of conflict.

Plot Summary:

The plot follows the experiences of a platoon of Finnish soldiers as they face one of the most brutal moments of the Continuation War between Finland and the Soviet Union. The soldiers are caught in a deadly struggle, marked by moments of camaraderie and tragedy. As the war progresses, soldiers such as Rokka and Kariluoto struggle with the horrific realities of combat, and the ideological battles within themselves. The film does not shy away from showing the physical and emotional toll of the war, presenting both the courage and the cowardice found in these men.

The climax of the film occurs during a series of intense battles where many characters meet their demise, often in sudden and tragic ways. The film closes with the soldiers hearing the announcement of the ceasefire in September 1944, signaling the end of the conflict. This ending is poignant, underscoring the futility of the bloodshed that has occurred.

10 Reasons to Watch The Unknown Soldier (2017):

1. Historical Insight: The film offers a vivid and detailed portrayal of the Continuation War from the perspective of ordinary Finnish soldiers. It gives insight into a lesser-known chapter of WWII, focusing on Finland’s complex position between the Axis and the Allies.
2. Realistic Depiction of War: Director Aku Louhimies captures the brutal and unrelenting nature of war. The battle sequences are tense and immersive, placing the audience in the thick of the action, and the sound design enhances this immersive experience.
3. Strong Ensemble Cast: The film features a talented ensemble cast, with standout performances by Eero Aho as the pragmatic Rokka and Johannes Holopainen as the idealistic Kariluoto. Each character brings a unique perspective on the war, making them relatable and humanizing the soldiers.
4. Stunning Cinematography: The film’s visuals are striking, with cinematographer Mika Orasmaa capturing both the beauty of Finland’s landscapes and the starkness of the battlefield. The use of wide shots juxtaposes the peaceful landscapes with the chaos of war.
5. Emotional Depth: The film doesn’t just focus on action; it delves deep into the emotional toll of war. It explores themes of loss, friendship, fear, and courage, allowing viewers to connect with the characters on a human level.
6. Fidelity to the Source Material: As a faithful adaptation of Väinö Linna’s novel, The Unknown Soldier brings to life the timeless themes of duty, survival, and the absurdity of war. It is a tribute to the literary classic and the soldiers who lived through these experiences.
7. Complex Characters: Unlike typical war films, The Unknown Soldier gives ample attention to character development. Each soldier is fleshed out, and their personal struggles add depth to the narrative, making the story more than just a series of battles.
8. Minimalist Music: The film’s subtle use of music enhances the realism. Instead of overpowering the action, the sparse use of sound amplifies the weight of the silence and the violence of the battlefield.
9. Universal Themes: While the setting is specific to Finnish soldiers, the themes of The Unknown Soldier resonate universally. The horrors of war, the bonds between soldiers, and the toll on mental health are issues that transcend borders.
10. Awards and Recognition: The film has received widespread acclaim for its direction, performance, and authenticity, winning several Finnish film awards and being praised for its honest and gritty portrayal of war.

What Will You Feel After Watching?

Watching The Unknown Soldier is an emotionally intense experience. The film’s gritty realism and focus on the harsh realities of war will likely leave you feeling a mix of sorrow, reflection, and perhaps anger over the senselessness of war. The fates of the characters will make you ponder the personal cost of conflict, and the film’s conclusion might evoke a sense of quiet melancholy as it reflects on the toll war takes on both individuals and nations

. The raw depiction of soldiers grappling with their survival and their loss will likely evoke a deep empathy for those who fought in these historical battles.

In conclusion, The Unknown Soldier (2017) is a powerful and unforgettable war film that avoids glorification and instead focuses on the real human experiences of soldiers during World War II. It is both a historical lesson and a poignant meditation on the devastating effects of conflict. Whether you’re a fan of war films or simply seeking a compelling narrative that combines history with humanity, this film is sure to leave a lasting impact.