This screening is part of our National Competition.
Language: Eng, Fin Duration: 114 min Age Limit: 12+
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Wed 5.3. -
20:15 -
Finnkino Cine Atlas 2 -
12,50
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WD08
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Matti Nykänen
Matti Nykänen – The LegendDirector: Olli LaineCountry: FinlandYear: 2024Genre: DocumentaryDuration: 114 minThis is a universally recognizable rags-to-riches and back-to-rags story about the greatest ski jumper of all time, who ends up stripping in a shady bar in a small Finnish town. Why did this happen, and how could this fate have been prevented?
In this visually striking and psychological documentary film, Matti Nykänen's life is explored through those who knew him best, including his daughter, mother, and sister. What was the national hero like as a father, son, and brother? Or as an athlete, singer, or schoolmate? This is the first time we hear and see stories about Nykänen's childhood.
Matti Nykänen, a four-time Olympic gold medalist and five-time world champion, was internationally dubbed “the Diego Maradona of ski jumping”. He stirred trouble already in the early stages of his career when his unstable behavior and alcohol addiction took over. Physically frail but extremely defiant of authority, he was known for frightening outbursts of rage.
When Nykänen’s idolized sports career ended, his downward spiral escalated, and the former star found himself making a living as a stripping singer. His ever-darkening and alcohol-fueled life eventually led him to prison for violent crimes. A regular protagonist in tabloid newspapers, the sports star was eventually reduced to a media-serving caricature and an unpredictable antihero engaged in endless scandals.
This documentary explores both Matti's personal responsibility and the role of the media and fans who surrounded him all the time. Unfortunately, his tragic life left a sad legacy for so many people.
This warm and profound documentary film offers an artistic approach that is completely different from anything previously seen about Matti Nykänen. The film reveals new perspectives on Matti Nykänen, his close ones, the media, and the entire nation, examining the life of this controversial superstar with respect and understanding.
