Is Farewell, Mr. President Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1987)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Farewell, Mr. President, a standout production of 1987, meticulously weaves its narrative threads through the Action, Crime, Drama landscape, offering a cinematic experience that is as challenging as it is rewarding. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Asko Mertanen is a waiter who is very interested in shooting. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Action, Crime, Drama are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Asko Mertanen is a waiter who is very interested in shooting. He gets fed up how the things are run in Finland, so he thinks that the best way to change them is to shoot the Finnish president."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. While the script occasionally leans into familiar territory, the efforts of Hannu Lauri ensure that the emotional beats of Farewell, Mr. President always land with sufficient weight. Hannu Lauri provides a steady, reliable performance that anchors the film through its narrative shifts.

The direction by Matti Kassila is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 87 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is Farewell, Mr. President truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Action, Crime, Drama, then this is a worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 5.8/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, Farewell, Mr. President explores the dichotomy of strength and vulnerability. The 1987 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Matti Kassila respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, Farewell, Mr. President serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Hannu Lauri or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Farewell, Mr. President is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.