One ‘incredible’ World War 2 film has a whopping 94% score on Rotten Tomatoes – and fans were gobsmacked after learning it’s based on true events. Released in 2022, the historical action thriller was filmed in Lapland on a $6.5million budget, set in late 1944 during the Lapland War. It was so successful that a sequel has already been confirmed for release later this year.
The incredible film was inspired by the real-life Finnish military sniper Simo Häyhä – better known as The White Death. Simo is believed to have killed more than 500 enemy soldiers during WW2, the highest number of sniper kills in any major war. He was severely injured in 1940 when an explosive bullet tore through his face, shattering his jaw. Presumed dead, he was left on a pile of corpses – until a bystander realised he was still alive and rushed him to hospital.
Thankfully Simo survived to write his memoirs, making a full recovery. He died in 2002 at the age of 96.
That incredible feat is reflected in Sisu, the 2022 film directed by Jalmari Helander. Also inspired by 1982 release First Blood, it follows gold prospector Aatami Korpi, who uncovers a huge deposit in the Lapland wilderness.
He soon encounters a Nazi platoon determined to steal his riches, and endures a seemingly endless string of near-death experiences along with his beloved Bedlington Terrier.
Reviews for the movie have branded it “remarkable”, with one writing: “Sisu is a remarkable film that captivates its audience with a powerful narrative of determination, strength and the unyielding spirit of human resilience, directed by a master storyteller.”
Someone else hailed it “one of the best action films of 2023 and of all time”, and an “absolute must-see”.
While another fan penned: “One of the most brutal movies ever.”