“The Unknown Soldier” (2017) (Tuntematon sotilas) is a Finnish war drama film directed by Aku Louhimies. It is based on the classic 1954 novel of the same name by Väinö Linna, which is a significant piece of Finnish literature. The film is a portrayal of the Continuation War (1941–1944) between Finland and the Soviet Union, seen through the eyes of a group of Finnish soldiers. This is the third adaptation of Linna’s novel, following earlier versions released in 1955 and 1985.

The story follows a machine gun company from the Finnish Army as they are sent to the frontlines to fight against Soviet forces. The narrative focuses on the experiences of individual soldiers, such as the determined Corporal Rokka (Eero Aho), the idealistic Lieutenant Kariluoto (Johannes Holopainen), and the cynical and sharp-tongued Corporal Koskela (Jussi Vatanen). Through these characters, the film captures the different emotions, relationships, and struggles faced by the soldiers, ranging from bravery and camaraderie to fear and despair.

The film does not shy away from depicting the brutal realities of war, showing both the physical and psychological toll it takes on the soldiers. The battle scenes are intense, realistic, and well-executed, giving the audience a sense of the chaos and terror experienced on the frontlines. At the same time, the film explores themes of patriotism, sacrifice, and the human cost of conflict.

The Unknown Soldier was praised for its powerful performances, production quality, and its authentic representation of Finnish history. It became a major success in Finland, resonating deeply with audiences due to its connection to national identity and history

The film’s release coincided with Finland’s 100th anniversary of independence, further enhancing its cultural significance.

Overall, The Unknown Soldier (2017) is a compelling war drama that provides a gritty and humanizing look at the experiences of soldiers during one of the most defining conflicts in Finnish history.