8.4 / 10 (based on 1624 reviews)
Pasila is a Finnish animated sitcom. The computer-animated series portrays a satirical view of daily events in Helsinki at a police precinct in the suburb of Pasila.
Genre: Animation, Comedy, Crime
Main Cast: Jani Volanen, Kari Hietalahti, Juho Milonoff, Mari Lehtonen
Creators: Atte Järvinen
Directors:
Writers:
6 seasons, 64 episodes, 25-minute runtime
Shows Most Like Pasila (2007)
Pasila 2.5: the Spin-off (2014)
7.5 / 10 (based on 191 reviews)
The story of Pasila police station continues.
Genre: Animation, Comedy, Crime
Main Cast: Kari Hietalahti, Juho Milonoff, Tero Koponen, Mari Lehtonen
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
4 seasons, 40 episodes
Kimmo (2012)
7.8 / 10 (based on 931 reviews)
The life of Kimmo and his friends.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Jussi Vatanen, Kari Hietalahti, Tommi Liski, Kari Ketonen
Creators: Tommi Liski, Petja Peltomaa, Olli Haikka
Directors:
Writers:
3 seasons, 45 episodes, 25.0-minute runtime
Modernit miehet (2019)
8.1 / 10 (based on 742 reviews)
None
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Iikka Forss, Jarkko Niemi, Tommi Rantamäki, Eero Milonoff
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
3 seasons, 36 episodes, 23.0-minute runtime
Sunnuntailounas (2018)
8.2 / 10 (based on 314 reviews)
A father of estranged adult children starts a new tradition and summons his reluctant offspring to a weekly Sunday lunch at which the family can go through the week’s events without holding back their opinions.
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Elena Leeve, Taneli Mäkelä, Jarkko Niemi, Santtu Karvonen
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
3 seasons, 30 episodes, 22.0-minute runtime
Luottomies (2016)
8 / 10 (based on 825 reviews)
None
Genre: Comedy
Main Cast: Kari Ketonen, Antti Luusuaniemi, Maria Ylipää, Aava Rokkanen
Creators:
Directors:
Writers:
3 seasons, 26 episodes, 10.0-minute runtime
Pasila is a Finnish animated sitcom that has carved a unique niche in the world of television. Launched in 2007, it quickly became a phenomenon in Finland, thanks to its sharp wit, distinctive animation style, and unflinching approach to satire. This show isn’t just another entry in the animated series genre; it’s a clever, biting commentary on Finnish society, politics, and the human condition, all wrapped up in the daily adventures of a Helsinki police department.
The Premise
At its core, Pasila revolves around Detective Pekka Routalempi and his colleagues at the Pasila precinct in Helsinki. The show thrives on the absurdities of everyday life, blending crime-solving with social commentary. The characters are exaggerated, yet somehow relatable, embodying various facets of Finnish culture and personality types. What sets Pasila apart is its ability to tackle complex issues with humor, making it both thought-provoking and laugh-out-loud funny.
Characters That Stick
Detective Pekka Routalempi
Pekka is the epitome of a flawed hero. He’s not the sharpest tool in the shed, but his heart’s in the right place. His approach to solving crimes often involves unconventional methods and leaps of logic that somehow, against all odds, lead to the resolution of the case. Pekka’s character is a brilliant satire of the typical TV detective, blending incompetence with unexpected moments of insight.
The Supporting Cast
The precinct is filled with memorable characters, each bringing their own quirks to the table. There’s the overly ambitious but hopelessly inept Commissioner Polonius, the cynical and morally ambiguous Detective Tommi Neponen, and the sweet, naive officer Darja, among others. This ensemble cast creates a dynamic that’s both hilarious and reflective of the diverse personalities found in any workplace.
Satire at Its Finest
Pasila shines brightest in its satirical elements. The show takes jabs at everything from Finnish politics and celebrities to global issues and human behavior. Nothing is off-limits. This fearless approach to satire is refreshing, providing not just entertainment but also a mirror to society, encouraging viewers to reflect on the absurdities of their own world.
Examples of Satire in Pasila
- Political Satire: Pasila doesn’t shy away from lampooning Finnish politicians and policies, often presenting exaggerated scenarios where the characters have to navigate through bureaucratic red tape and political correctness gone mad.
- Celebrity Culture: The show also targets the obsession with celebrity culture, presenting caricatures of well-known Finnish personalities and highlighting the often ridiculous nature of fame.
The Animation Style
Pasila’s animation is as distinctive as its humor. The style is simplistic, almost crude, which might seem off-putting to some at first glance. However, this simplicity is intentional, stripping away the gloss and glamour often found in other animated series to focus on the storytelling and humor. The animation serves as a visual metaphor for the show’s approach to its subjects—uncomplicated on the surface but complex and layered beneath.
Cultural Impact
In Finland, Pasila has become more than just a TV show; it’s a cultural touchstone. It has sparked discussions about the issues it satirizes and has become a part of the Finnish lexicon, with phrases from the show entering everyday language. Its impact is a testament to the power of satire done right, resonating with audiences and provoking thought long after the credits roll.
Why Pasila Matters
In a television landscape filled with formulaic sitcoms and dramas, Pasila stands out for its boldness and originality. It demonstrates that animation isn’t just for kids or slapstick comedy; it can be a powerful medium for social commentary. Pasila matters because it challenges its viewers, makes them laugh, and, most importantly, makes them think.
Conclusion
Pasila is a gem of Finnish television, offering a unique blend of humor, satire, and social commentary. Its legacy is evident in its enduring popularity and the way it has ingrained itself in Finnish culture. For those looking to explore international TV shows or interested in the power of satire, Pasila is a must-watch. Its approach to storytelling and its ability to tackle complex issues with humor and wit make it a standout show that continues to be relevant and entertaining.
In the end, Pasila is more than just a series about a police precinct in Helsinki. It’s a reflection of society, a critique of our times, and a reminder that sometimes, laughter is the best way to face the absurdities of life.