Learning a new language can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. Finnish, a unique language with its own set of complexities, can be particularly difficult for non-native speakers. However, one of the most enjoyable and effective ways to learn Finnish is through movies. Films provide cultural context, real-life dialogues, and a plethora of vocabulary that can enhance language learning. In this article, we will explore some of the best movies to learn Finnish, offering a mix of genres and styles to suit different learning preferences.

Why Use Movies to Learn Finnish?

Movies are an excellent resource for language learners for several reasons:

1. Authentic Language Use: Movies showcase natural language, including slang, idiomatic expressions, and colloquialisms that are not always found in textbooks.

2. Cultural Insights: Films provide a window into Finnish culture, traditions, and societal norms, which are crucial for understanding the context of the language.

3. Listening Skills: Watching movies helps improve listening skills and pronunciation by exposing learners to native speakers’ intonations and accents.

4. Visual Context: The visual aspect of movies aids in comprehension, making it easier to understand the storyline and dialogues.

Top Movies to Learn Finnish

1. The Man Without a Past (Mies vailla menneisyyttä)

Director: Aki Kaurismäki

Release Year: 2002

Aki Kaurismäki’s “The Man Without a Past” is a critically acclaimed Finnish film that follows the story of a man who loses his memory after being mugged. The film’s simple, straightforward dialogue and slow pacing make it an excellent choice for Finnish learners. The language used is clear and easy to follow, and the film’s melancholic yet humorous tone provides cultural insights into Finnish society.

2. Lapland Odyssey (Napapiirin sankarit)

Director: Dome Karukoski

Release Year: 2010

“Lapland Odyssey” is a comedy film that tells the story of three friends on a journey to find a digital TV converter box. The film is filled with colloquial expressions and everyday language, making it a perfect choice for learners looking to understand conversational Finnish. The humorous and light-hearted nature of the film keeps viewers engaged while learning.

3. Rare Exports: A Christmas Tale (Rare Exports)

Director: Jalmari Helander

Release Year: 2010

For those who enjoy fantasy and horror, “Rare Exports” offers a unique take on the Santa Claus myth. The film is set in Lapland and features a mix of Finnish and English dialogues. This bilingual aspect makes it easier for beginners to follow along while still being exposed to Finnish language and culture. The movie’s intriguing plot and stunning visuals add to the learning experience.

4. The Unknown Soldier (Tuntematon sotilas)

Director: Edvin Laine (1955), Rauni Mollberg (1985), Aku Louhimies (2017)

“The Unknown Soldier” is a Finnish war film based on Väinö Linna’s novel of the same name. There are three adaptations of this film, each providing a different perspective on the story of Finnish soldiers during World War II. The film’s rich historical context and formal language offer advanced learners an opportunity to expand their vocabulary and understanding of Finnish history.

5. Frozen Land (Paha maa)

Director: Aku Louhimies

Release Year: 2005

“Frozen Land” is a drama that explores the interconnected lives of several characters in Helsinki. The film’s realistic portrayal of urban life and its complex characters provide a deep dive into contemporary Finnish society. The dialogues are natural and varied, making it a good choice for intermediate to advanced learners looking to improve their listening comprehension.

6. Iron Sky

Director: Timo Vuorensola

Release Year: 2012

“Iron Sky” is a science fiction comedy that imagines a scenario where Nazis have established a base on the moon and are planning to return to Earth. The film’s quirky plot and multilingual dialogues (including Finnish) make it an entertaining way to learn Finnish. The movie’s humor and fast-paced action keep viewers engaged, making it easier to absorb the language.

7. The Other Side of Hope (Toivon tuolla puolen)

Director: Aki Kaurismäki

Release Year: 2017

Another masterpiece by Aki Kaurismäki, “The Other Side of Hope” tells the story of a Finnish man who befriends a Syrian refugee. The film’s dialogue is clear and purposeful, making it accessible for language learners. The movie also provides valuable insights into contemporary issues in Finland, such as immigration and social integration.

8. Mother of Mine (Äideistä parhain)

Director: Klaus Härö

Release Year: 2005

“Mother of Mine” is a historical drama that explores the experiences of a young Finnish boy sent to Sweden during World War II. The film’s emotional depth and historical context provide a rich learning experience. The dialogues are poignant and heartfelt, making it an excellent choice for learners interested in historical and emotional narratives.

9. The Grump (Mielensäpahoittaja)

Director: Dome Karukoski

Release Year: 2014

“The Grump” is a comedy-drama that follows an elderly man who is set in his ways and resistant to change. The film’s humorous take on generational differences and its use of everyday language make it a great choice for learners. The dialogues are filled with idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms, providing a deeper understanding of conversational Finnish.

10. Steam of Life (Miesten vuoro)

Director: Joonas Berghäll, Mika Hotakainen

Release Year: 2010

“Steam of Life” is a documentary that offers a glimpse into the lives of Finnish men through their conversations in saunas. The film’s authentic and heartfelt dialogues provide a unique learning experience. The use of real-life conversations makes it easier for learners to grasp the nuances of the Finnish language and culture.

Tips for Learning Finnish Through Movies

To make the most out of your movie-watching experience, here are some tips:

1. Use Subtitles: Start with English subtitles if you’re a beginner, and gradually switch to Finnish subtitles as you become more comfortable with the language.

2. Repeat and Mimic: Rewind and re-watch scenes to practice pronunciation and intonation. Mimic the actors’ dialogues to improve your speaking skills.

3. Take Notes: Write down new vocabulary and phrases, and try to use them in your daily conversations.

4. Focus on Context: Pay attention to the visual context and body language to understand the meaning of unfamiliar words and phrases.

5. Watch with a Friend: Watching movies with a fellow Finnish learner or native speaker can enhance your learning experience. Discuss the movie and practice speaking in Finnish.

Conclusion

Learning Finnish through movies is an enjoyable and effective way to immerse yourself in the language and culture. The films listed in this article offer a variety of genres and styles, catering to different learning preferences. By incorporating movies into your language learning routine, you can improve your listening skills, expand your vocabulary, and gain valuable cultural insights. So grab some popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the journey of learning Finnish through cinema.