What is the oldest film in Finland?
Finland’s oldest film is called “Salaviinanpolttajat”. This film was completed in 1907 and was directed by Finnish filmmaker Louis Sparre together with Teuvo Puro. “Salaviinanpolttajat” is a significant part of Finnish film history, as it is the first known Finnish feature film.
Background and plot of the film
“Salaviinanpoltajat” is a comedy about the production of secret liquor and the events surrounding it. The plot of the film focuses on two farmers who decide to become secret liquor smokers. However, their actions attract the attention of the local police, and various complaints follow.
The meaning of the film
Although “Salaviinanpolttajat” has not survived in its entirety, its importance in Finnish film history is undeniable. It opened the way for Finnish film production and inspired future filmmakers. The film was shot in Helsinki, and the most modern technology of the time was used in its production.
Film preservation and restoration
Unfortunately, “Salaviinanpolttajat” has not been preserved in its entirety until today. Only a few individual scenes and photographs remain. This makes the film an even more valuable cultural heritage, and the restoration of its surviving parts has been an important task for film historians.
