The Dissidents Poster

The Dissidents 2017

★ 5.713 votes90 min📅 2017-02-17

In the grim shadows of Soviet-era Estonia, three restless young men hatch a daring plan to escape to Sweden, chasing the dream of freedom under the pale Nordic sky.

Director: Jaak Kilmi

Cast

Märt Pius
Märt Pius
Ralf Tamm
Karl-Andreas Kalmet
Karl-Andreas Kalmet
Mario Viik
Veiko Porkanen
Veiko Porkanen
Einar Kotkin "Meathead"
Esko Salminen
Esko Salminen
Lars-Jukka Lampinen
Julia Berngardt
Julia Berngardt
Rita
Tõnu Kark
Tõnu Kark
Grandpa
Henrik Kalmet
Henrik Kalmet
Mario's Brother
Helena Valkee
Helena Valkee
Neighbour Lady
Fabian Silén
Fabian Silén
Swedish Police Officer
Jari Nissinen
Jarmo

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Dissidents (2017) about?

Three Estonian young men risk everything to flee Soviet rule and reach Sweden, only to confront the harsh realities of life in the free world. Their journey is a mix of reckless adventure and sobering self-discovery, filled with both laughter and frustration as they navigate a new culture.

Who directed The Dissidents?

Jaak Kilmi directed The Dissidents, bringing a sharp eye to the blend of comedy and tension that defines the film.

Who stars in The Dissidents?

The film stars Märt Pius, Karl-Andreas Kalmet, and Veiko Porkanen, who lead the ensemble with vibrant energy and emotional depth.

Is The Dissidents (2017) worth watching?

While unrated on IMDb, The Dissidents stands out for its unique blend of Cold War setting and comedic storytelling. If you enjoy offbeat historical adventures with heart and humor, this Estonian film is a hidden gem worth your time.

How long is The Dissidents?

The Dissidents runs for 90 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

About The Dissidents (2017) — A Cold War comedy about escaping to Sweden and discovering freedom isn't what they expected

In the grim shadows of Soviet-era Estonia, three restless young men hatch a daring plan to escape to Sweden, chasing the dream of freedom under the pale Nordic sky. Yet what awaits them is far from the utopia they imagined—gritty reality soon sets in, revealing a world where independence comes with unexpected challenges. Director Jaak Kilmi crafts a sharp, genre-blending adventure that mixes the high stakes of escape with the biting humor of culture shock. Märt Pius, Karl-Andreas Kalmet, and Veiko Porkanen lead the ensemble cast, delivering performances that balance restless energy with heartfelt reflection. The Dissidents (2017) blends action and comedy to explore themes of liberty, identity, and the often-painful awakening to adulthood in a world that's anything but free.

This Estonian gem thrives on its authentic setting and witty dialogue, capturing the bittersweet tension between rebellion and assimilation. Kilmi's direction infuses the journey with a sense of urgency and levity, making it both a thrilling ride and a poignant character study. For fans of offbeat historical comedies with bite, The Dissidents offers a refreshing take on the Cold War era—one where the real escape might not be geographic, but personal.