Cinema
The Year of the Hare
Jäniksen vuosi
Risto Jarva · 1977
Synopsis
Kaarlo Vatanen, an advertising copywriter in Helsinki, suddenly gives up his job and his whole life to head into the wilds of Finland. A hare injured by a car becomes his travelling companion, and Vatanen is never happier than when he holds the tamed animal against him, in the midst of unspoiled nature. From forest to village, as far as Lapland, he nevertheless discovers that society knows how to find those who flee it.
Context
The first adaptation of Arto Paasilinna's novel, published in 1975, it was written by Jarva and his producer Kullervo Kukkasjärvi, with the participation of the writer, and shot from July to September 1977 in about ten municipalities, from Espoo to Kuopio. Antti Litja plays Vatanen, Antti Peippo did the cinematography, Markku Kopisto the music. Jarva died on returning from the preview, a week before the release on 23 December 1977; the film received the Jussi Award for direction posthumously. A 4K restoration has returned it to cinemas.
Who it is for
Over two hours, in Finnish; a slow, contemplative comedy that leaves it to the viewer to draw a conclusion.
Prizes and reception
Eighth best Finnish film of all time according to the critics polled by the public broadcaster in 2012; the best received of Jarva's works abroad.