The Return of the Ark
Finnish Premiere
Friday at 6 PM, Alō
Documentary, 2026, Sweden
Director: Martin Sandin
Duration: 1 h 48 min
Themes: Småland, rock, friendship
Language: Swedish, English; English subtitles
Age rating: Suitable for all ages
Director Martin Sandin will be present at the screening.
There's no doubt about the kings of Nordic glam rock. The story of the Swedish band The Ark has finally been compiled into a documentary, which will have its fresh screening in Karhupuisto. The Return of The Ark (Vi var The Ark) is the story of six guys from the forests of Småland in Southern Sweden, who transformed their experience of being outsiders into a sparkling fantasy, a close friendship, and one of Sweden's and the entire Nordics' biggest rock success stories of this millennium. Pastor's son Ola Salo is a natural star, whose sympathetic sermon reached even the Eurovision Song Contest.
The documentary follows The Ark's journey through three decades – from the band's formation in the early 1990s to their breakthrough at the turn of the millennium, the controversial failed conquest of the United States, their breakup in 2011, and their recent return tour. Stepping onto the stage after more than a decade-long hiatus, Salo has to consider what would be true to The Ark, yet also stylish for a middle-aged rock star.
Other credits:
Cinematography: Viktor Annerstål
Producers: Kristofer Åkesson, Stina Gardell
Production company: Mantaray Film
