Scandi Screams
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Rare Exports

Rare Exports
2010 | 84 min | Horror, Drama, Fantasy | Finland, Norway, France, Sweden | Director: Jalmari Helanderi | Cast: Onni Tommila, Jorma Tommila, Peeter Jakobi | Language: Finnish, English, with English subtitles

One for the naughty list, Rare Exports takes us to the Korvatunturi mountains of northern Finland, near the Russian border. A team of excavators led by a young boy named Pietari discover the ancient burial site of the real Santa Claus, who is far from the jolly, gift-giving figure of popular culture. Pietari, along with his father and a group of local hunters, must face the horrifying truth about the real Santa and find a way to stop him before it's too late.

Blending elements of horror, fantasy, and comedy to create a unique and subversive Christmas tale, it explores the darker side of folklore and challenges the traditional image of Santa Claus. The film incorporates elements of Finnish folklore, including the legend of the "Yule Goat," which is a demonic creature associated with Christmas.

Offering a fresh and unexpected twist on the holiday genre, presenting a chilling and thrilling adventure that stands out from conventional Christmas movies, Rare Exports combines elements of horror and fantasy to create a unique and memorable cinematic experience.

Shrewdly blends just the right amounts of fairy tale wonder and action movie heroics into the oddball mix to highly satisfying effect.
The Hollywood Reporter
WINNER
Best Cinematography, Best Music, Best Sound Design, Best Editing, Best Art Direction, Best Costume Design, Jussi Awards 2011