Synopsis
Summer 1962 and Olli Mäki has a shot at the world championship title in featherweight boxing. From the Finnish countryside to the bright lights of Helsinki, everything has been prepared for his fame and fortune. All Olli has to do is lose weight and concentrate. But there is a problem – he has fallen in love with Raija.
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Cast
- Jarkko LahtiOlli Mäki
- Oona AirolaRaija Jänkä
- Eero MilonoffElis Ask
- Joanna HaarttiLaila Ask
- Esko BarqueroSnadi
- Elma MilonoffEvi
- Leimu LeistiTuula
- Hilma MilonoffAnneli
- Olli RahkonenBoxer
- Joonas SaartamoBoxer
Recommendations
- 100
Variety
Kuosmanen’s unassuming yet immaculate command of tone and form here would impress at any stage of his career, but it’s entirely remarkable in a first feature. - 100
The Hollywood Reporter
The movie is a small marvel of impeccable craftsmanship. - 90
Screen Daily
Low-key performances by the conflicted Lahti and the radiant Airola prove the final knockout hit, with The Happiest Day in the Life of Olli Mäki at its best when it’s lingering upon the nuanced expressions on their faces, or highlighting the way their portrayals so convincingly convey their characters’ affections. - 80
CineVue
A unique and beautiful boxing movie. - 80
Time Out London
It’s an authentic celebration of the timeless delights of country bike rides and skimming stones. Absolutely lovely. - 80
Village Voice
Olli Mäki isn't a knockout, but it does go the distance. - 75
The Playlist
Although “Olli Mäki” ostensibly belongs to the boxing film genre as much as it is functions as a romantic drama, it never seems truly invested in the underdog narrative of its title character. - 75
The Film Stage
It finds a poetically understated ending, but the drama, especially near the end, borders on being too repetitive. Still, it’s a worthwhile showcase for excellent performances, assured direction, and a twist on the sports story that prioritizes character before history.
