SF Studios, REinvent Board Big-Budget Film Adaptation of 19th Century Epic Poetry Compilation ‘Kalevala’ (EXCLUSIVE)

As a cinephile with a penchant for historical epics and a soft spot for Nordic storytelling, this news about “Kalevala: The Story of Kullervo” has me brimming with anticipation! Having delved into my fair share of Finnish folklore and mythology, I can’t wait to see how Antti J. Jokinen brings the ancient tales of Kalevala to life on the big screen.


In partnership with SF Studios, a major production is underway for the film “Kalevala: The Tale of Kullervo,” an expansive historical drama inspired by Finland’s national saga, the Kalevala. This cinematic endeavor will be helmed by acclaimed director Antti J. Jokinen, known for his works on “Helene” and “Purge.”

Renowned Nordic actors Elias Salonen (“Adults,” “Siege”) and Eero Aho (“The Unknown Soldier”) will take on leading roles in an upcoming film. The production company, ReelMedia, led by Johanna Enäsuo and Marko Röhr, is responsible for making the movie. SF Studios will release the film in Nordic cinemas around early 2026, with a theatrical debut scheduled in Finnish theaters. Meanwhile, REinvent has taken charge of international sales.

“The movie ‘Kalevala: The Story of Kullervo’ is the initial screen adaptation of the Finnish national epic, ‘Kalevala,’ compiled from Karelian and Finnish folklore and mythology in 1835 by Elias Lönnrot, a renowned Finnish physician and adventurer.”

In the 1100s, our period movie will primarily be filmed on-site at Bomba, close to Lake Pielinen in Nurmes, North Karelia. We’re constructing numerous sets such as homes, storage buildings, and courtyards for the shoot. Production begins in mid-September.

“Yaba Holst, our executive producer at SF Studios, expressed immense satisfaction as we contribute to the sharing of this compelling local tale with viewers. Holst mentioned that the venture carries high expectations, anticipation, and thrill. The joint work with Reel Media and Antti Jokinen has been exceptional, promising a remarkable cinematic journey for Finnish audiences on their screens,” said Holst.

Apart from Salonen and Aho, this group also includes Ilkka Koivula, Olli Rahkonen, Krista Kosonen, and Johannes Holopainen.

“REinvent International Sales’ CEO, Rikke Ennis, expressed that the Kalevala project is a cherished dream for their team. She praised Antti, the director, stating his talent is exceptional and they are certain he will excel in bringing to life this grand action film adapted from the Nordic myth, Kalevala,” stated Ennis, who previously led TrustNordisk.

“The movie ‘Kalevala: The Story of Kullervo’ is a joint production between Antti J. Jokinen’s Storm Inc., led by Marko Röhr and Johanna Enäsuo’s ReelMedia Oy. This film is being created in partnership with SF Studios, the Finnish Film Foundation, and Yleisradio. The funding for ‘Kalevala: The Story of Kullervo’ comes from the North Karelia Cooperative Society (PKO), Nordisk Film & TV Fond, and the Regional Council of North Karelia as well.”

SF Studios, REinvent Board Big-Budget Film Adaptation of 19th Century Epic Poetry Compilation ‘Kalevala’ (EXCLUSIVE)

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2024-08-09 10:16