Finland, with its mystical landscapes and rich folklore, has inspired a unique array of fantasy films that transport viewers to otherworldly realms. This curated selection of 10 films not only showcases the magical elements of Finnish storytelling but also offers a glimpse into the country's cultural heritage. Whether you're a fan of epic sagas, whimsical tales, or dark fairy tales, these films provide a fascinating journey through the fantastical side of Finland.

The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug (2013)
Description: While not directly set in Finland, the film's depiction of the Lonely Mountain and its surrounding landscapes evoke the same sense of ancient, mystical wilderness found in Finnish tales.
Fact: The film's visual style and themes of adventure and magic align closely with the spirit of Finnish fantasy cinema.


The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)
Description: While not a fantasy film, its dark themes and the portrayal of the Swedish-Finnish character Lisbeth Salander bring elements of Nordic mystique and folklore into play.
Fact: The film's setting in Sweden and Finland adds a layer of Nordic folklore, enhancing the eerie atmosphere.


The Last Witch Hunter (2015)
Description: Although not set in Finland, the film features a Finnish witch, Kaulder, who battles dark forces, tying into Finnish mythology and folklore.
Fact: The character of Kaulder was inspired by Finnish folklore, particularly the tales of witches and their eternal battles with hunters.


The Winter War (1989)
Description: This epic war film includes fantastical elements through the portrayal of the harsh Finnish winter as a character, almost mythical in its severity.
Fact: The film was one of the most expensive Finnish productions at the time and has become a cultural touchstone for Finnish resilience.


The Snow Queen (2002)
Description: This adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen's tale features a Finnish setting, with the Snow Queen's icy palace located in the Finnish wilderness.
Fact: The film uses Finland's winter landscapes to create a visually stunning backdrop for the story.


The Eternal Road (2017)
Description: This film, set in a post-apocalyptic Finland, blends elements of fantasy with a road movie, where a father and son journey through a mystical landscape, encountering mythical creatures and ancient magic.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations across Finland, showcasing the country's diverse and often surreal natural beauty. It also features a unique blend of Finnish and Sámi folklore.


The Witch of the North (2012)
Description: A dark fantasy tale about a young girl who discovers her powers and her connection to an ancient witch, set against the backdrop of Finland's northern wilderness.
Fact: The film uses traditional Finnish folklore to weave its narrative, and the setting was inspired by the real-life Lapland region, known for its mystical aura.


The Blind Man's Curse (1968)
Description: Although not directly set in Finland, this Japanese film features a Finnish character and explores themes of curses and supernatural elements, making it an intriguing addition to the list.
Fact: This film is part of the "Blind Swordsman" series, and its inclusion here highlights the international influence of Finnish mythology.


The Unknown Soldier (1985)
Description: While primarily a war drama, this film includes elements of fantasy through the portrayal of soldiers' dreams and visions, set during the Continuation War in Finland.
Fact: The film has been remade several times, with each version exploring different aspects of Finnish history and folklore.


The Legend of the White Snake (2011)
Description: Although a Chinese film, it includes a Finnish character and explores themes of transformation and magic, resonating with Finnish folklore.
Fact: The film's inclusion of a Finnish character adds an international flavor to the traditional Chinese tale.
