Tokasikajuttu

In 2012 directors Jukka Kärkkäinen and J-P Passi made The Punk Syndrome, a documentary about the Finnish band Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät. The members of the punk quartet, which is named after their guitarist and principle songwriter Pertti, all have mental disabilities. The group had a successful seven- year-run until breaking up in 2016 when Pertti retired from music at the age of 60. Punk Voyage catches up with the band in their final year together. Tension abounds as extensive touring has clearly caused friction among the members. Bassist Sami is fed up with singer Kari’s rebellious antics, as well as Pertti’s decision to call it quits. He’s also become more active in politics, devoting less time to music. Drummer Toni is distraught after finding out their roadie has been messing around with his girlfriend. All this drama takes place as the band prepares for the popular Eurovision Song Contest, an opportunity that could bring more international fame. This absorbing film serves as the finale for a unique band that truly defied the odds. (Cleveland International Film Festival)