Marko Jantunen gave free rein to make a film about him.
In 2016, an ex-hockey player appeared Marko Jantunen a book about life Through hell. Soon after that, Jantunen started getting proposals for a movie based on the book.
Six years later A winger is ready and will hit theaters next week. Jantunen is satisfied with the end result. But why is he willing to show his dark past on the big screen to the whole nation?
Jantunen wants to help. If his story can encourage someone with a substance abuse problem or prevent substance abuse problems altogether, digging out your own skeletons from the closet is worth it. For the film, he told the makers about his life, but was otherwise not involved in the creative process.
Marko Jantunen is looking forward to the reception of the film Laitapuole höykääjai. Heidi Heikkilä
– I gave myself free rein, because as a hockey player myself, I have been able to do my own work quite freely. I know the professionals know their job. I read the script, but after that I wanted to see the finished film.
Jantunen’s meritorious puck career once had substance abuse problems. First problems were caused by alcohol, later by drugs. In addition to his career, he lost his wife and children. Today, the family is on good terms and so is the ex-wife Sari is satisfied with the finished film.
– For me and my ex-wife, it was most important that his story be brought out in the right way.
Much to improve
Only part of Jantunen’s life has been included in the film.
– Someone said that the film shows maybe a tenth of what substance abuse problems are. The things that are shown in the movie happened every day. Every day with drugs is new, and you don’t know where it will lead. Things hurt and happen, he describes.
It has been said that today’s young people use less alcohol and more drugs, but alcohol is still the most common substance among young people.
Actor Severi Saarinen plays Marko Jantus in the new Laitapuole hökkääjaja film. Heidi Heikkilä
– You have to remember that alcohol is the second most addictive substance after heroin. The power of alcohol should not be forgotten, says Jantunen.
Drugs have become commonplace with, among other things, the tor network. It’s easier to get drugs, and you don’t necessarily have to lead an otherwise criminal life for them.
– These new elements must be taken into account in youth drug addiction work. And to listen to them and study what kind of society they live in.
Jantunen believes in the value of preventive substance abuse work. He recalls that in his own youth there was little education about substance abuse. Jantunen’s two sons are now in their twenties. He has not feared for them that the boys would end up on the same roads as their father.
– We have spoken openly, they know my story and the importance of genetics. Of course they make their own decisions and are careful about it. If something happens in life, we can always talk about it honestly.
For Jantuse, the most important part of his drug addiction work are the lectures, of which he has already given more than 500. Heidi Heikkilä
From time to time, the social debate is twisted about whether drugs should be legalized.
– My position on the legalization of drugs is no, Jantunen states.
– I think recovery-oriented, 12-step treatments, i.e. so-called Minnesota-style treatments, should be introduced alongside the current system, he says.
– The public and private sector could increase cooperation. There are many resources and professionals who have something to give to the public. All experts should be brought to the same table.
Winger in theaters August 26.