Homecoming (Anssi Kömi, Suvi West, 2023): Norway, Finland

Reviewed by Ville Salmi at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, 2024.

Homecoming is an emotional film. It looks at cultural heritage, reconciliation, and the significance of returning stolen objects to their original owners. The film takes place against the stunning backdrop of Lapland, home to the indigenous Sami people, whose ancient things make their way back after years of displacement. The cinematography depicts the raw splendor of Lapland, with its enormous landscapes, pure snow-covered stretches, and nomadic Sami villages. The Sami people, also known as the Saami, Sámi, or Saamelaš, are an indigenous ethnic group inhabiting the Arctic territory called Sápmi. This area encompasses parts of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia. The Sami have a distinct cultural identity, language, and traditions that distinguish them as indigenous people with thousands of years of history.

The use of natural light and wide angles adds to the film’s immersive quality, allowing viewers to feel the harsh yet magical environment that molds the Sami way of life. The film strikes a careful balance between the human and political sides of the repatriation operation. Suvi West’s mission is about more than just returning artifacts; it’s about confronting historical injustices, healing scars, and reclaiming cultural identity. The film introduces us to Sami people who tell poignant stories about the value of these items, linking the spectator to the community’s profound sense of loss. The soundtrack, created by a partnership of indigenous musicians, lends the picture an authentic and compelling mood. Traditional Sami joik songs merge smoothly with a contemporary accompaniment, giving the film an emotional resonance that adds to its power.

As the repatriation mission progresses, the film delves into the intricacies of negotiating with museums, governments, and private collectors. It digs into the ethical quandaries confronting organizations that house these stolen relics, challenging the audience to consider the broader ramifications of cultural restitution. Homecoming succeeds in combining an engaging story with a strong social message. It serves as a reminder of the significance of addressing historical injustices and making reparations, not only for the Sami people but also for indigenous communities around the world. The film creates a lasting impression, pushing viewers to consider the larger topic of cultural repatriation and our roles in conserving the world’s rich heritage. Watching a film about the Sami people may be an instructive, eye-opening, and culturally stimulating experience, providing viewers with a glimpse into a world that is distinct from their own while encouraging understanding and appreciation for the diversity of human cultures.