Movie selection: Never alone – Impressive storytelling

Text Esa Mäki-Tulokas / Leffafriikki.com In collaboration AVPlus magazine

This time, one of the films that ended up as the month’s film of choice was something truly special: Klaus Herron’s new film “Never Alone”. This choice was a perfect fit for the celebratory update – my blog’s 900th post! – and what could be more appropriate than celebrating it with the biggest domestic premiere of the year!

Klaus Härö has not previously been among my personal favorites, but “My Dear Captain of the Sea” significantly raised his esteem in my eyes. Now I can say that “Never Alone” is even more impressive.

The film is based on true events, which adds to its impact. The film tells the story of Finnish businessman and philanthropist Abraham Stiller, who dedicates his life to humanitarian aid. During World War II, he desperately fights to save the Jewish refugees who fled to Finland from certain death in concentration camps, but at the same time, he has to confront the political realities of his time.

Hereho handles difficult themes skillfully and builds a whole that holds together from beginning to end. In one hour and twenty minutes, the film succeeds in telling a comprehensive and meaningful story without leaving anything essential out. It is tight, beautiful, and meticulously thought-out storytelling that doesn’t go on needlessly.

Although the film is a stunning whole, the small details bothered. Ville Virtanen's performance as Abraham Stiller is strong, but at times it shows familiar tendencies. Virtanen is a brilliant actor, but his unique personality inevitably brings to mind previous roles – especially Sorjonen's. Additionally, the mask that portrayed the old character of Stiller felt a bit unnatural, which sometimes compromised the film's realism. Despite minor beauty flaws, Virtanen carries the lead role with charisma and his characterization brings authenticity to the character.

The other acting performances are absolutely superb. Kari Hietalahti delivers one of the best roles of his career, capturing the viewer with his hateful and cruel character. Hannu-Pekka Björkman once again convinces, and the politician played by Carl-Kristian Rundman is both laughable and frighteningly credible at the same time. Satu Tuuli Karhu, on the other hand, shines in her small but demanding role – her charisma literally radiates on the screen. Every performance feels deliberate and meticulously executed.

Visually, the film is impressive. The staging and costumes are perfectly authentic, and Härö skillfully uses dark lighting to bring a pressing and nostalgic atmosphere to the story. The black-and-white transitions between the cities and the years are a stylish refinement of the details, reminiscent of international top-class films.

The sound world perfectly supports the atmosphere of the film. The music is subtle and serves the story, and nothing extra has been added to the film’s soundscape – just as it should be in a work of this kind. Especially the long silence at the beginning of the film was a brilliant choice that had the entire hall holding its breath. It was one of those moments that remind us of how powerful film can be at its best.

This is a superb domestic film that stands up to international top-quality productions. Go see it – such films are cultural treasures that we should not take for granted.