Law of the Land

Law of the Land is a 2017 Finnish crime drama directed by Jussi Hiltunen and featuring Ville Virtanen, Antti Holma, and Mikko Neuvonen. Combining elements of arthouse sensibilities with traditional thrillers, the film presents a narrative of conflict, family ties, and moral ambiguity set against the beautifully stark backdrop of Northern Finland. The film's title – Law of the Land – not only references the geographical territory in which its story unfolds but also reflects the unwritten laws of human relationships and our irrevocable bonds with the people in our lives.

The story settles around Lasse, portrayed by Ville Virtanen. Lasse is a retired police officer who lives in a remote town near the Finland-Norway border. He represents the old law in a land where justice seems to have lost its way. His life is relatively quiet until he is faced with the return of his two estranged and wayward sons, Mikael and Saku. Antti Holma delivers a powerful performance as Mikael, the eldest son who is newly released from prison and seeking to reestablish his life. Meanwhile, Mikko Neuvonen plays the reckless younger brother, Saku, who constantly tiptoes the line of legality as he immerses himself in smuggling activities.

The tension between the characters escalates as the underlying past grievances and current territorial disputes unfold. The complex dynamics between the three leading male characters are expertly explored, taking viewers on a captivating journey of exploring the human condition and the often-blurred line between right and wrong.

While the plot primarily revolves around familial ties and the tensions thereof, it's worth noting that 'Law of the Land' is not merely an earnest family drama. The film also functions as a thrilling crime narrative. The constant threat of violence, the imminent danger present in the unlawful activities occurring at the border, and the ever-mounting pressure on Lasse to maintain peace, all contribute to a feeling of simmering suspense.

In equal parts, both a family saga and a crime thriller, director Jussi Hiltunen does an impressive job of maintaining the balance. Hiltunen’s storytelling prowess is especially notable in the way he manages to keep the audience invested in the protagonist's plights. The emotional core of the film resonates quite potently due to the sincere performances of the ensemble cast, especially Ville Virtanen, whose worn, world-weary portrayal of Lasse elevates the narrative to newer heights.

Throughout 'Law of the Land', we see various themes emerging - themes of loyalty and betrayal, love and resentment, and, most compellingly, law and order versus anarchy. There is a deep exploration of the impacts and costs of breaking moral, ethical, and legal codes, which is a direct representation of the film's title itself. However, even in the midst of this exploration, we are constantly reminded of our protagonist’s humanity - his struggles, his doubts, his appreciation for the quiet simplicity of life and his ultimately futile attempts to distance himself from the chaos around him.

Visually, the film is striking and unforgettable; it makes full use of its setting in the wild and untamed landscapes of Lapland. The raw beauty of the Finnish tundra, with its breathtaking vistas and stark, majestic scenery, provides a powerful backdrop to the unfolding drama. The cinematography allows the landscape to become a character in its own right, echoing the isolation and loneliness of Lasse's world.

Accompanying these stunning visuals is a haunting, minimalist score by Kerkko Koskinen. The music builds on the sense of tension and hovers in the background, like a specter adding a layer of unease to the narrative.

Overall, 'Law of the Land' is a compelling cinematic experience that blends intense storytelling, thought-provoking themes, engrossing performances, and an arresting visual style to create a film that stays with viewers long after the credits have rolled. This is a starkly beautiful, morally complex, and deeply moving tale of familial bonds, crime, and survival. It is a matchless viewing experience, especially for those who have a keen interest in uniquely engaging cinematic narratives and the exploration of human dramas against the backdrop of a landscape as wild and untamed as their stories.