[1] The film is based on the third and final volume of Väinö Linna's novel trilogy Under the North Star.

It's a sequel to the 1968 film Here, Beneath the North Star which was based on the two first volumes of the trilogy.

The film shares only one main character, Akseli Koskela, with its prequel.

However, the outbreak of the Second World War brings new calamities and Akseli Koskela loses three sons.

The shared hardships endured during the war is shown to lead to a reconciliatory atmosphere.