The Kidnapping of a President

Presidentin kyyditys

Finland, Czech Republic, The Netherlands, Estonia | 2026 | 87 min

Language: Finnish

Subtitles: Swedish

Not for persons under 12

Director(s): Samuli Valkama

Script: John Lundsten, Samuli Valkama

Cast: Jussi Vatanen, Aku Sipola, Elias Salonen, Pertti Sveholm, Riitta Havukainen

Production: TACK Films

Distribution: Nordisk Film

Drama | Comedy

With Guests In Finnish History Society (Mis)use of Power Sense of Danger On the Road Première

Finnish Gems

Screenings:

Directed by Samuli Valkama, Presidentin kyyditys is a comedically infused, fresh and entertaining drama that depicts the 1930 kidnapping of former president K. J. Ståhlberg in a surprisingly funny, warm and humane manner. Valkama blends history and comedy lightly yet respectfully – a balance that makes the film instantly approachable. Pertti Sveholm shapes Ståhlberg into a subtle, dignified figure, and Riitta Havukainen surprises in her role bringing rhythm, humor and emotional force to the story. Her performance is the film’s heart: every scene she appears in comes alive. Jussi Vatanen, Aku Sipola and Elias Salonen round out the ensemble with fine roles, and the foreign extras delight particularly, adding exceptional authenticity. In the Czech‑shot sequences, they create a vivid, dynamic world that feels genuinely lived‑in rather than staged.

Timo Kuismin

The filmmaker will be a guest at Espoo Ciné and will attend the film’s screening.

Updated 2026-07-30 17:30:10 UTC