Music Insight of the Year awarded to Aurinko laskee Lemmenjoella

The winner was chosen by an independent panel of experts, who described their task as particularly challenging this year. All shortlisted productions received high praise from the jury for their use of music.

“When awarding the best insight into the use of music, the winner is not necessarily the one with the best music. It’s about how music adds something special to the work,” the jury explained, summarizing the reasoning behind their decision.

The winning film was Aurinko laskee Lemmenjoella (The Sun Sets on Lemmenjoki), directed and written by Juho-Pekka Tanskanen, which premiered in April 2025.

“The Music Insight of the Year award is given to a documentary in which music is an integral part of both the narrative and the thematic expression. In this work, music serves as both a concrete element and a profound metaphor that encapsulates a period of cultural transformation. It not only supports the story but also reveals its deeper layers—like treasures unearthed from the depths of history,” the jury stated.

According to the jury, the themes of longing, secrets, and fleeting happiness recur in the lyrics of the songs in Sunset at Lemmenjoki, making music the emotional core of the film. The role of musical design is not only audible but also visually present. Thoughtful musical choices make the production truly deserving of the award.

For director Juho-Pekka Tanskanen, music is a central part of the filmmaking process, which is clearly reflected in his work. The music composed by Erik Michelsen and the careful selection of the soundtrack have significantly influenced the editing process. The film’s visuals were chosen to serve the music, emphasizing its impact on the rhythm and mood of the film.

The jury consisted of Helsingin Sanomat culture editor Jussi Ahlroth, BAD Agency creative director Lauri Domnick, VTT, docent and Sibelius Academy lecturer Kaarina Kilpiö, and music industry influencer, manager and CEO Katariina Sorsa. Eveliina Pitkänen, Licensing Manager at AV Music, served as the jury secretary.

The Screen Helsinki event was organized by Audiovisual Producers Finland – APFI ry, the association of Finnish film and TV content producers.

Aurinko laskee Lemmenjoella

Director: Juho-Pekka Tanskanen
Screenplay: Juho-Pekka Tanskanen
Cinematographer: Juho-Pekka Tanskanen
Editor: Markus Leppälä
Composer: Erik Michelsen
Sound designer: Janis Grossmann-Alhambra
Producer: Isabella Karhu / Danish Bear Productions