Level: primary schools

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Shrek

“Shrek” is an animated film released in 2001. It tells the story of a green, yet kind-hearted ogre named Shrek, who lives alone and unappreciated in a swamp. However, Shrek’s peace is disturbed when the expulsion of fairy tale creatures is ordered to his swamp by the ruler of Duloc, Lord Farquaad.

Shrek wants to regain his peace, so he strikes a deal with Farquaad: he agrees to rescue Princess Fiona, so that Farquaad can marry her and Shrek can get his swamp back. On the journey to save the princess, Shrek receives help from a donkey named Donkey, who accompanies him on his adventures.

When Shrek and Donkey arrive at Princess Fiona’s castle, they realize that Fiona is not quite an ordinary princess. Along the way, Shrek and Fiona grow closer, but Shrek soon faces the truth about Farquaad’s true intentions.

“Shrek” is an adventure filled with humor, romance, and twists related to the world of fairy tale creatures. It has become known for its memorable characters, clever dialogue, and unique storytelling.

“Shrek” won the Oscar for Best Animated Feature at the 2001 Academy Awards. This was the first time the award for Best Animated Feature was presented, and “Shrek” was the first film to be honored in this category.

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The Prince of Egypt

The movie is based on the story of Moses from the Bible. It follows Moses’ life as he faces challenges and trials while trying to free the Hebrews from slavery under the rule of the Egyptian Pharaoh.

The story begins when young Moses is saved from Pharaoh’s decree and grows up as a prince in Pharaoh’s palace. However, he eventually learns the truth about his origins and sets out to lead the Hebrews to freedom and the promised land, despite facing conflict with the Pharaoh and enduring challenging trials in the wilderness.

Themes of religion, identity, the pursuit of freedom, and accepting fate are explored in the movie. Its stunning animation and impactful music make it visually and emotionally compelling. “The Prince of Egypt” has proven to be popular among both children and adults, continuing to have an impact for decades.

The film won an Oscar for Best Original Song for “When You Believe”.

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Emperor’s Secret

“The Emperor’s Secret,” completed in 2006, is Finland’s first full-length computer-animated film set in a fantasy world. Although the movie features caricatures of politicians from the “Itsevaltiaat” TV series, it is not directly related to the series’ plot. The story revolves around a small village’s battle against an evil emperor.

The film was directed by Riina Hyytiä, and among its voice actors are Mika-Ala Panula, Anna Bentley, and Jukka Puotila. There are many characters, with several recognizable as Finnish politicians. “The Emperor’s Secret” was produced by Helsinki Film and Anima Vitae Oy.

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Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken

Sweet, clumsy 16-year-old Ruby Gillman desperately tries to fit into life at Oceanside High, but most of the time, she feels invisible. She tutors her skateboarding crush in math, who seems to only admire Ruby as a friend, and Ruby can’t hang out at the beach with the popular kids because her overprotective supermom has forbidden Ruby from going into the water. But when Ruby breaks her mom’s most important rule, she discovers that she is the descendant of the kraken warrior queens, inheriting the crown from her domineering grandmother, the Warrior Queen of the Seven Seas.

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Urpo & Turpo – Johtolangan jäljillä

Two curious toy bears, named Urpo and Turpo, reside on the bookshelf in the children’s room and greatly enjoy reading. They blend everyday life and fairy tales, creating amusing adventures. For instance, they find themselves on a deserted island and are saved by a breadfruit tree, bravely improve others’ appearances, search for clues, break rules, long for silence, and compete to be the best and strongest in the world.

Similarly to the toys in Toy Story, Urpo and Turpo come to life when the family isn’t watching. The Urpo & Turpo movie provides entertainment for both adults and the youngest members of the family. The film is easy to follow as it features good Finnish. It is based on Hannele Huovi’s popular storybooks and is now even more vibrant and lively on the big screen as it has been restored.

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Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem

For years, the turtle brothers have lived sheltered from the human world, but now they have decided to conquer the hearts of New Yorkers through their heroic deeds and be accepted as ordinary teenagers. With the help of their new friend April O’Neil, they fight against a mysterious criminal organization, but soon they face the ultimate challenge when a mutant army is unleashed upon them.

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Ella ja kaverit 2: Paterock

Ella, a second-grader, and her classmates’ teacher insist that Pate, who dreams of a rock star career, must also learn multiplication tables. The friends come up with the idea that if Pete were a rock star, he wouldn’t need to know anything, as the manager would take care of everything. They form a band, and their goal is to perform at the mega concert of the singing star Elviira.

These characters are based on the book series “Ella ja Paterock” (Ella and Paterock).

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Christmas Story

“Joulutarina” is a Finnish Christmas film released in 2007. The film was directed by Juha Wuolijoki. The story is set in a small Finnish village during Christmas and revolves around a family struggling to find the joy and meaning of Christmas amidst difficulties.

The main character in the film is Nikolas, a young boy whose parents have passed away. Nikolas lives with his grandmother and her daughter Luovi. The village is going through tough times, with many families facing financial difficulties. Nikolas decides to do something special by giving a gift to every child in the village for Christmas.

Nikolas embarks on a snowy journey towards the north, encountering various people and adventures along the way. He receives help from a mysterious character named Iisakki, who shows him the way to the magic of Christmas. Nikolas shares his gifts during his journey, bringing joy to everyone he meets.

The film’s atmosphere is warm and Christmassy, emphasizing community, generosity, and helping others. Watching “Joulutarina” has become a part of many Finnish families’ Christmas traditions, and it has received praise for its visual beauty, touching story, and atmospheric music.

Jussi Awards:
Best Cinematography: Mika Orasmaa
People’s Choice Award

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PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie

When a magical meteorite crashes into Adventure Bay, it grants the PAW Patrol pups superpowers, transforming them into MIGHTY PUPS! For the smallest member of the team, Tracker, these new powers are a dream come true. However, things take a sour turn when the pups’ arch-enemy, Mayor Humdinger, escapes from jail and teams up with a mad scientist. Their goal is to steal the superpowers for themselves. With Adventure Bay’s fate hanging in the balance, the Mighty Pups must stop this villainous duo before it’s too late. And Tracker must learn that even the smallest pup can make a big difference.

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Risto Räppääjä ja Sevillan saituri

Ricky Rapper is in for an astonishing surprise! He learns that he’s the future heir to a distant relative’s fortune. The miserly man residing in Seville has amassed a colossal wealth with grand castles, and soon all of it would belong to Ricky. Consequently, the rambunctious Ricky needs to be groomed into a sophisticated young gentleman whose behavior would befit even the court, but that’s not quite easy. However, Nelli starts to suspect that things aren’t quite as they seem and decides to take action. The grand, mysterious house where Ricky goes to meet his relative is filled with hair-raising secrets and peculiar servants. This delightful adventure pulls Aunt Peace, Elvi, and Lennart into thrilling twists and turns.