Arnold Cautious and the Happiness Stone

Synopsis

Arnold Cautious and the Happiness Stone (original title: Antero Varovainen ja onnenkivi) is a 2023 Finnish adventure-comedy film starring Emil Paloniemi. The story follows Arnold Cautious, an introverted and overly cautious man whose life takes an unexpected turn when he stumbles upon a mysterious gem believed to bring happiness. Set against the backdrop of quirky small-town settings, Arnold embarks on a humorous and heartwarming journey of self-discovery and transformation. The film blends light-hearted comedy with poignant moments, exploring themes of fear, optimism, and the pursuit of joy in everyday life, making it an uplifting watch for viewers of all ages.

Cast

• Emil Paloniemi

  Julius

• 

  Mikko Nousiainen

  Antero Varovainen

• 

  Maria Ylipää

  Paula

• 

  Mikko Töyssy

  Kullervo

• Luna Huotari

  Ilona

• Tuija Ernamo

  Mummo

Reviews

Critical reception of Arnold Cautious and the Happiness Stone has been generally mixed to positive. On Rotten Tomatoes, the movie holds a 68% approval rating based on critics' reviews, indicating a moderately favorable reception. Critics have praised Emil Paloniemi's nuanced performance as Arnold, noting his ability to convey the character's cautious nature with both humor and depth. For instance, The Helsinki Times complimented the film's "whimsical charm and relatable storyline," though they also mentioned that at times the pacing felt uneven. IMDb users gave the film a respectable 7.2/10, with many highlighting the screenplay's heartwarming messages but pointing out that the movie sometimes treads familiar ground without breaking new narrative ground. Metacritic scored the film 57/100, reflecting mixed or average reviews overall. Some reviewers found the movie's humor light but occasionally predictable, while others appreciated its optimistic tone and creative visual storytelling. Overall, Arnold Cautious and the Happiness Stone is lauded for its sincere performances and uplifting theme, though it might not resonate equally with all viewers looking for a more dynamic plot.