From Sisu to Rambo, Jalmari Helander’s action legacy continues.
Writer and director Jalmari Helander returned to Fantastic Fest this week for the world premiere of his latest film, SISU: Road to Revenge. I previously spoke with Helander about the original SISU, and his passion for inventive, larger-than-life action storytelling is once again on full display in this sequel. Nerdtropolis contributor Drew Munhausen attended the premiere screening and shared his full review, which you can read [here].
A Relentless Action Sequel
Road to Revenge picks up after the events of the first film, as the indomitable “man who refuses to die,” played once again by Jorma Tommila, returns to the house where his family was murdered during the war. In a symbolic act, he dismantles the home, loads it onto a truck, and sets out to rebuild it somewhere safe in their honor.
But his mission takes a violent turn when the ruthless Red Army commander responsible for his family’s death—played by Stephen Lang (Don’t Breathe)—reappears, determined to finish what he started. What follows is a cross-country fight to the death, packed with outrageous and clever action set pieces that push the boundaries of practical stunt work and gritty survival storytelling.
Cast and Crew
The sequel reunites Helander with Tommila and Richard Brake, alongside Lang’s menacing new role. Known for balancing pulpy spectacle with raw emotion, Helander’s writing and direction ensure that Road to Revenge is more than just a shoot-’em-up—it’s a testament to resilience, legacy, and the will to endure.
What’s Next for Helander
Following SISU: Road to Revenge, Helander will be stepping into one of the most iconic action franchises of all time. He has been tapped to direct an upcoming origin movie for Sylvester Stallone’s legendary character, John Rambo, which he actually expressed interest in when I spoke with him. With his knack for brutal yet inventive action, Helander seems like a natural fit to reimagine the early years of one of cinema’s greatest action heroes.
SISU: Road to Revenge storms into theaters nationwide on November 21, bringing back the same fearless, wall-to-wall cinematic energy that made the original film a sleeper hit.
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Sean Tajipour
Sean Tajipour is the Founder and Editor of Nerdtropolis and the host of the Moviegoers Society and Reel Insights Podcast. He is also a member of the Critics Choice Association. You can follow on Twitter and Instagram @Seantaj.
