| Nainen on valttia | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Directed by | Ansa Ikonen |
| Written by | Mika Waltari |
| Produced by | T. J. Särkkä |
| Starring | Ansa Ikonen Aku Korhonen Uuno Laakso Unto Salminen |
| Cinematography | Armas Hirvonen |
| Edited by | Armas Vallasvuo |
| Music by | Heikki Aaltoila |
Production company | |
Release date |
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Running time | 99 minutes |
| Country | Finland |
| Language | Finnish |
Nainen on valttia (Woman is the Wild Card) is a 1944 Finnish black-and-white comedy film directed by Ansa Ikonen.[1] It was Ikonen's only directorial effort. The film is based on an original screenplay by Mika Waltari, revolving around a young woman who transforms the lives of three bachelors upon arriving at their home. The woman, a fugitive from the police, is revealed to be a famous operetta star named Kirsti Kalpa. She manages to conceal her identity—at least temporarily.[2]
Despite being filmed in the midst of the Continuation War, the film does not reflect the war but instead presents a lighthearted comedy. The five-month production took place mainly indoors.[3]
The project was offered to Ikonen by T. J. Särkkä, but she initially doubted her abilities, fearing male actors might not accept a female director. Ikonen received technical assistance from cinematographer Armas Hirvonen. While contemporary reviews noted issues with Waltari's script, Ikonen's direction was seen as skilled.[3]