The Last Border

Synopsis

The Last Border, a 1993 Finnish drama film directed by Mika Kaurismäki, follows the story of a Finnish-Swedish border guard played by Matti Pellonpää. Set against the backdrop of the collapse of the Soviet Union, the film explores the personal struggles and conflicts faced by the characters as political changes affect their lives. The Last Border delves into themes of identity, loyalty, and the complexities of relationships in a time of shifting boundaries. The stunning cinematography captures the stark beauty of the Nordic landscapes and adds depth to the emotional journey of the characters as they navigate the challenges of a changing world.

Cast

• Jolyon Baker

  Jake

• 

  Jürgen Prochnow

  Duke

• 

  Fanny Bastien

  Doaiva

• 

  Kari Väänänen

  Borka

• 

  Matti Pellonpää

  Dimitri

• Soli Labbart

  Old Woman

Reviews

The Last Border received mixed reviews from critics upon its release. While some praised the film for its atmospheric cinematography and the compelling performance of Matti Pellonpää, others criticized its slow pace and lack of narrative depth. Rotten Tomatoes rated the film at 3.8/10, highlighting the film's strong visuals but noting its shortcomings in storytelling. IMDb gave it a rating of 4.5/10, with some users lauding its introspective approach while others found it difficult to engage with. Despite the polarizing opinions, The Last Border remains a thought-provoking exploration of human nature in the face of political upheaval.