Pohjoinen intohimo / Arctic Circle of Lust

Petri and Anu have been together for one year. They are both in their mid-50s and live deep in the Finnish countryside, where they farm potatoes. But for some time now, Petri has also been regularly hooking up with men. Until now, he has kept that side of his secret, but very cautiously, he begins to share it with Anu. In this rural setting close to the Arctic Circle, Petri’s bisexuality is taboo. Yet at the same time, a lively cruising and hook-up scene plays out in parking lots, fields, and at lakes. For Anu, the idea of Petri’s outings, which he usually sets out for on short notice, are a challenge. But the couple confront this new aspect of their relationship with love and candor. While Anu processes her thoughts and feelings by writing poetry, Petri drives through the Finnish countryside to his assignations, which are often marked by great calm and tenderness. Director Markku Heikkinen gets very close to his subjects and tells this tale of an unusual love story in warm, soft tones.