The Return of the Ark, SAT 12.9. 19:00 - Alō

ADDITIONAL SCREENING - Finnish premiere

The Return of the Ark, SAT 12.9. at 7 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

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 be freshly screened at 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 transform the experience of being outsiders into a sparkling fantasy, a close friendship, and one of Sweden's and the entire Nordic region's biggest rock success stories of this millennium. Pastor's son Ola Salo is a natural star whose sympathetic sermon resonates all the way to Eurovision.

The documentary navigates The Ark's journey across three decades – from the band's formation in the early 1990s to their breakthrough at the turn of the millennium, their controversial conquest of the United States, their breakup in 2011, and their comeback tour in recent years. As Salo steps onto the stage after more than a decade-long hiatus, he has to consider what would be true to The Ark, yet still stylish for a middle-aged rock star.

Other credits:

Cinematography: Viktor Annerstål
Producers: Kristofer Åkesson, Stina Gardell
Production company: Mantaray Film

Secure your spot now!

🎟️ Ticket categories:

- Festival ticket – €15
Standard admission fee for one screening, supports the event's realization.

- Patron ticket – €25
Do you want to support the festival more? Choose a patron ticket and support the continuation of the event.

- Solidarity ticket – €10
Students, unemployed, pensioners, and other discount groups

In addition, we organize open free screenings at Karhupuisto, Bar Tÿpo, Kallio Library, and Suvilahti DIY.