Idiomatic

Idiomatic is an endearing Finnish series available on Sundance Now that beautifully captures the intricacies of life, love and everything in between, all projected through the lens of Scandinavian culture. Initiated in 2018, this two-season show uses the essence of modern-day Helsinki, the capital city of Finland, to narrate the tale of two distinctive individuals who navigate through the complex maze of life while juggling love, career, and personal identities amidst an ever-evolving day-to-day urban milieu.

In the center of Idiomatic's storyline, we find a delectably fascinating couple – Mikko and Venla. Mikko, played by actor-creator Tommi Korpela, is a journalist working at a trashy tabloid-type newspaper. On the other hand, Venla, portrayed by Anna Paavilainen, is a stylish public relations manager climbing the corporate ladder. As a couple, Mikko and Venla portray remarkably relatable and realistic relationships, enabling viewers to identify with their shared happiness, disputes, and compromises. The dynamics of their relationship create a charming narrative that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking.

Apart from delving into the minutiae of romantic relationships, the series also stands out in its portrayal of the inner workings of a modern Finnish workplace. The show cleverly highlights the nuances of office politics, career challenges, ethical dilemmas, and the overall corporate culture, presenting viewers with a slice of Finnish professional life. The sharp, witty dialogue and the interesting interplay among co-workers add another layer to the story, making the professional aspect just as captivating as the romantic.

Integral to Idiomatic is the exploration of social dynamics outside of the couple's life. The mosaic of colorful secondary characters, such as Mikko's boss Jussi or Venla's best friend Saara, provide a vibrant backdrop and add depth to the narrative. These characters, each with their distinct personalities, quirks, and dilemmas, not only serve to amplify the comedy but also add a sense of authenticity and relatability to the ongoing storyline. Through their interactions with Mikko and Venla, they shed light on various aspects of contemporary Finnish life, from the consternation of aging and the pressures of societal norms to the subtleties of love, friendship and responsibility.

The creators have made an appreciable effort to present Helsinki as less of a background and more of a character itself. With its charming unraveled streets, the convivial Baltic Sea, and the time-honored Scandinavian buildings, the city breathes magic into each scene. Watching Idiomatic, you are not merely a bystander to Mikko and Venla's life but are an active participant in their adventures across the city. This immersive experience is heightened by the encapsulating visual storytelling and crisp cinematography.

The dialogues, predominantly in Finnish language, underscore the idiosyncrasies of Finnish communication, thus living up to the show's title "Idiomatic." As you step into Mikko and Venla’s world, you can learn a great deal about the Finnish language and its distinct mannerisms, soaked in humor, sarcasm, and a pleasant everyday chatter.

What truly sets Idiomatic apart is its entertainment value that marries comedy with a profound exploration of real-life issues. The writing displays a great sense of humor that is self-aware, perceptive, and often encased in layers of subtlety. At the same time, the series does not shy away from addressing more somber themes such as ethical dilemmas, social pressures, and the constant struggle of upholding one's personal and professional identity.

With an intricate storyline, well-rounded characters, and stunning visuals, Idiomatic offers a captivating and heartfelt depiction of contemporary Finnish life. Witty, poignant, and deeply thoughtful, this Sundance Now series invites you to embark on a journey through Helsinki's vibrant streets, exploring the lives, loves, and struggles of its delightful inhabitants. If you are one to appreciate slice-of-life comedies that are not just entertaining but also enlightening, Idiomatic is a show you should not miss.