The Finnish film 'Kullervo's Story', based on the Kalevala and primarily filmed in Nurmes, North Karelia, is facing tough competition from newer entrants in the cinema landscape. With a production budget of 4.85 million euros, the film has yet to surpass the 100,000 viewer milestone, falling behind other local releases. For instance, the domestic film 'Luottomies', which premiered just two weeks ago, has already surpassed 'Kullervo' in viewer numbers and may become the most-watched film in Finland this year.

Having debuted just over a month ago, 'Kullervo's Story' has attracted around 92,000 viewers, which is underwhelming given its substantial budget and the expectations surrounding a film of its scale. Financial backing from local entities such as the North Karelian Cooperative and support from Yle, which acquired broadcasting rights for the film, indicate strategic investments aimed at boosting the film's profile. However, despite this support, the film's performance has not matched the anticipated audience engagement.

The film's struggles highlight the competitive nature of the Finnish film industry, where the appeal of traditional narratives like that of Kullervo faces challenges from contemporary offerings. The success of newer films, particularly 'Luottomies', implies a shifting audience preference, suggesting that the market may be leaning towards more modern storytelling and themes. This trend could have significant implications for future film productions in Finland, as filmmakers may need to adapt to changing viewer expectations to achieve commercial viability.