Finland's Oscar Hope: A Humanist Sci-Fi Tale

Markus Lehmusruusu's film "The Squirrel" has been selected as Finland's submission for the Academy Awards. Director Aki Kaurismäki lauded the film as a "masterpiece," comparing it favorably to "2001: A Space Odyssey" for its profound humanism. Lehmusruusu aims for the film to resonate on multiple levels, emphasizing that humans should not always prioritize themselves.

The narrative centers on Pasi, a designer of artificial pets in a sterile future where nature is thought to be extinct. His life changes upon discovering an actual squirrel, possibly the last one. The film examines the consequences of human indifference and the dangers of technological overreach, questioning what might be lost when nature is replaced.

"The Squirrel" also delves into the complexities of sexuality and primal urges, suggesting a growing detachment from these fundamental aspects of human experience. Lehmusruusu challenges the typical dystopian narrative by focusing on the unintentional negative choices people make, rather than overt evil.

Despite its serious themes, Lehmusruusu desires the film to be entertaining and joyful, sneaking its underlying horror into the audience's awareness gradually. The film seeks to entertain while prompting reflection on our responsibility as a species and the importance of appreciating what we take for granted.