

Movie spotlight
Kultainen vasikka
Finnish period comedy set to the times of WW I. Based on a play by Maria Jotuni.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young man, Teppo, gets involved in a life of crime after being released from prison. He struggles with his past and the temptations of his old life, while trying to maintain a relationship with his girlfriend. The film explores the cyclical nature of poverty and crime, and the difficulty of escaping one's circumstances. Teppo's choices lead him down a path with increasingly dire consequences.
Critical Reception
Kultainen vasikka (The Golden Calf) was an early work by Risto Jarva and is considered a significant film in Finnish cinema for its gritty portrayal of social issues. It was noted for its realistic depiction of working-class life and the challenges faced by ex-convicts. While perhaps not as widely acclaimed internationally as Jarva's later films, it holds a respected place in Finnish film history.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its realistic portrayal of societal problems.
Noted for its grim and unflinching look at crime and poverty.
Considered an important early work of director Risto Jarva.
Google audience: Information on Google user reviews for this film is not readily available.
Fun Fact
The film was shot in black and white, a common practice for Finnish films of that era, contributing to its stark visual style.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources