Archive center showing Finnish rock documentary

The winner of the Finnish Jussi Award (equivalent of the Academy Award) for the best documentary film in 2013 will be shown this Saturday at the Appelo Archive Center.

"Kovasikajuttu" is the original title of the documentary "The Punk Syndrome." It was produced in Finland in 2012. It is about four members of a punk rock band who are developmentally disabled, living with autism and Down syndrome.

Pertti Kurikka, Kari Aalto, Sami Helle, and Toni Välitalo form Pertti Kurikka's Name Day using music as an outlet to their frustration with everyday living in a group home and being discriminated against in public because of their disabilities. They quickly gain popularity in Finland and perform in other countries. Finally, they represent Finland at the 2015 Eurovision Song Contest although the film does not cover that event.

Opening a window to the world of the mentally disabled, the film has an upbeat tone. John Anderson describes it as a “funny, edgy and very human feature.”

The Punk Syndrome will show at 11 a.m. and is 85 minutes long. It is in Finnish with English subtitles. There is no rating of this film, but be aware there is much swearing in it. There is no admission charge. Donations are greatly appreciated.

Appelo Archives Center is located at 1056 SR 4, two miles east of the Naselle schools.