The Kidnapping of a President

Samuli Valkama’s The Kidnapping of a President is a historical drama infused with comedy, depicting the 1930 kidnapping of former President and Member of Parliament K. J. Ståhlberg. Valkama blends history and humour with a light touch and genuine respect, making the film engaging and accessible despite its challenging subject matter. In the early 1930s, the far-right Lapua Movement spread fear through political violence and intimidation across Finland. Yet the chain of events that culminated in the abduction of the former president—set in motion by drunken bravado—is such an absurd true story that it borders on the unbelievable.

Jussi Vatanen excels at deadpan comedy as the hungover antihero, Lieutenant Colonel Eero Kuussaari, whose desperate desire to be accepted by the “tough guys” sets the entire farce in motion. Pertti Sveholm gives a subtle and dignified performance as President Ståhlberg, while Riitta Havukainen, as Mrs Ståhlberg, brings an unexpected layer of wit, warmth and emotional depth to the story. Havukainen’s performance is the heart of the film, making every one of her scenes come vividly to life. Aku Sipola and Elias Salonen round out the outstanding ensemble cast with memorable performances as the architect of the botched coup attempt and his hot-headed accomplice.

Timo Kuismin and Tytti Rantanen

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