

Shadows in Paradise
1986, Finnish. Directed by Aki Kaurismäki.
Nikander, a rubbish collector and would-be entrepreneur, finds his plans for success dashed when his business associate dies. One evening, he meets Ilona, a down-on-her-luck cashier, in a local supermarket. Falteringly, a bond begins to develop between them.
- Runtime
- 1h 14m
- Post-credits
- None listed
- Language
- Finnish
- Rated
- NR
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Worth the Hype
Clear your evening for this.
7.3/10 from 457 TMDB viewer ratings.
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Where to watch Shadows in Paradise
Shadows in Paradise is streaming on Criterion Channel in India.
Stream
Availability in India as of 9 November 2026. Streaming data by JustWatch.
Cast & crew
- Aki KaurismäkiDirector
- Matti PellonpääNikander
- Kati OutinenIlona
- Sakari KuosmanenMelartin
- Esko NikkariNikander's Co-Worker
- Kylli KöngäsIlona's Friend
- Pekka LaihoStore Manager
- Jukka-Pekka PaloThird Man
- Svante KorkiakoskiPolice Officer
- Mari RantasilaNikander's Sister
- Safka PekkonenPianist
- Antti Ortamo2nd Pianist
- Mato ValtonenPelle
Details
- Released
- 17 October 1986
- Original title
- Varjoja paratiisissa
- Country
- Finland
- Written by
- Aki Kaurismäki
Check ratings elsewhere
News & fan talk
After Shadows in Paradise
What comes next in the series.
If you liked Shadows in Paradise

Not Easily Broken
2009 · 6.3/10
Popcorn FlickRecommended by TMDB viewers

The Man Without a Past
2002 · 7.4/10
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Nine Lives
2005 · 6.1/10
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The Lost Husband
2020 · 6.7/10
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Love Everlasting
2016 · 7.4/10
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Salome
1953 · 5.8/10
SnoozefestRecommended by TMDB viewers

Hello, Goodbye, and Everything in Between
2022 · 6.1/10
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The Best of Me
2014 · 7.5/10
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Winter's Tale
2014 · 6.3/10
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Breathe
2017 · 7.4/10
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Shadows in Paradise: quick answers
What comes after Shadows in Paradise?
Next in the series: Ariel (1988) and The Match Factory Girl (1990).
Is Shadows in Paradise worth watching?
Our verdict is Worth the Hype: Clear your evening for this. It scores 7.3/10 from 457 TMDB viewer ratings.
How long is Shadows in Paradise?
Shadows in Paradise runs 74 minutes (1h 14m).
Does Shadows in Paradise have a post-credits scene?
None is listed for Shadows in Paradise. Viewers tag these on TMDB, so a brand-new film may not be tagged yet.
Shadows in Paradise parents guide: is it suitable for kids?
Shadows in Paradise is rated NR in India. Check the rating guidance before watching with young children.
Which OTT platform is Shadows in Paradise on?
Shadows in Paradise is streaming on Criterion Channel in India. (Checked 9 November 2026.)
What movies are like Shadows in Paradise?
If you liked Shadows in Paradise, try Not Easily Broken, The Man Without a Past, Nine Lives.
Who directed Shadows in Paradise?
Shadows in Paradise (1986) was directed by Aki Kaurismäki and stars Matti Pellonpää, Kati Outinen, Sakari Kuosmanen.

