The "Härmän häjyt" were a bunch of peasants in the 19th century Finland who preferred to make their own laws and show their own selected virtues instead of obeying the official authorities. As they still seem to be revered as some local heroes the "häjyt" make an interesting film topic. While living in the countryside among deeply devout believers and over-zealous state officials, the idea of personal freedom is lead into crisis. A manly man can't but feel uncomfortable with the omnipresent control and he starts to abuse the standards that form a too strict prescription against his ideals.
Although the "häjyt" were petty criminals in nature, their lust for freedom puts the sympathies to their side. As many people found this offensive they wanted the "häjyt" to be put down altogether and completely. This task is given to the new police official who has decided to put these "gangsters" in order.
Because of the special nature of the "criminals" the official must be a tough one too, but one may ask does he get too far as well? The final answer is found from the movie itself which is probably one of the best ones the SF films has managed to create. During the whole film there is a splendid tension that will sustain to the whole end of the film. Tauno Palo in the main role does an excellent business.
