The Good Son

Synopsis

The Good Son (Hyvä poika) is a Finnish drama film released in 2011, directed by Zaida Bergroth and starring Samuli Niittymäki. The film follows the story of a young boy named Topi, who struggles with the complexities of family relationships and the haunting memories of his deceased father. As Topi navigates the challenges of adolescence, he finds himself torn between loyalty to his family and his own desire for freedom. The Good Son explores themes of grief, identity, and the search for belonging, taking the audience on an emotional journey through Topi's coming-of-age experience.

Cast

• Samuli Niittymäki

  Ilmari / Elder Son

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  Elina Knihtilä

  Leila / Mother

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  Eero Aho

  Aimo / Author

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  Anna Paavilainen

  Karita / waitress

• Eetu Julin

  Unto / Younger son

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  Kaisa Hela

  Lilli

Reviews

The Good Son has garnered mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its poignant portrayal of a young boy's emotional turmoil, while others found the pacing and storytelling lacking. Rotten Tomatoes gave the film a rating of 3.8/5, with a consensus that the movie delivers a heartfelt narrative but may fall short in its execution. IMDb users rated The Good Son 6.0/10, with many applauding Samuli Niittymäki's performance and the film's raw emotional depth. Metacritic's score stands at 62/100, indicating generally favorable reviews from critics who appreciated the film's nuanced exploration of family dynamics and personal growth. Overall, The Good Son is a thought-provoking film that resonates with audiences seeking a deep and introspective viewing experience.