Finland gets the 'Star' role in epic

Linna's novels headed to the bigscreen

By GUNNAR REHLIN

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STOCKHOLM -- Author Vaino Linna's epic novels about Finland's modern history are about to become a feature once again.

Timo Koivusalo will helm "Under the North Star," the dramatic story about Finland during WWI and the ensuing bloody civil war.

The new film, with a budget of 2.6 million euros ($3.8 million), will start shooting in February. Timo Koivusalo produces for Artista Film.

In 1968 and 1970, the novels were made into features helmed by Edvin Laine, "Here Under the Northern Star" and "Akseli and Elina."

J.P. Silli, helmer of current hit "Ganes," starts shooting psychological thriller "Blackout," for delivery in the fall. Pic, which has a budget of $2.2 million, is produced by Olli Haikka for Filmiteollisuus.

Mika Kaurismaki starts shooting "The House of Branching Love" in July for delivery next February. Drama has a budget of $2 million and is produced by Kaurismaki for Marianna Films.