The Magnetic Man

Like some find Edith Södergran, Ian Curtis or Sylvia Plath at a young age, director Arto Halonen found Pekka Streng and his music. Each of them gives sensitive boys and girls strength to believe that they are not alone with their feelings of alienation.

While some overcome their obsessions, others remain fascinated with the idols of their youth. Luckily, Halonen is one of the latter. He takes us on a journey, on which we encounter a talented man, who knew throughout his recording career that he had cancer and was going to die young.

The Magnetic Man is a beautiful, melancholy documentary about a songwriter, which lingers on after the viewing. This personal piece gives hope that each life, if led in the right way, can have meaning to others. As Streng is an empowering figure, this is an empowering film.

Taina Vuokko | Translation by Maria Koistinen