Juhani, a troubled teen with a tragic past, lands in a home for boys known as "the Island." A world unto itself, the Island is run by Mr. Harjula, a strict disciplinarian intent on shaping his charges into respectful, confident young men.  When a romance between Juhani and Harjula's daughter, Juhani discovers something he has never before experienced: a home.  As his haunting childhood slowly comes into focus, Juhani is forced to confront his demons, risk vulnerability and learn to forgive himself.  Niilo Syväoja shines as Juhani, delivering a nuanced performance that at once captures Juhani's heartbreaking inner trauma and the discovery of the strength and wisdom he needs to rise above his fears.  This year's Finnish submission for the Best Foreign Language Film Oscar.

Filmography: Beauty and the Bastard (05).

Sponsored by Scandinavian Heritage Foundation.