An award-winning force in Finnish cinema, Roope Olenius has carved a compelling path as a director, actor, and producer. He is recognized as a key figure in the vibrant new wave of independent filmmaking emerging from Finland.

Following his Bachelor of Fine Arts from the prestigious New York Film Academy in 2013, Olenius returned to his native Finland, quickly establishing himself in both film and television. Initially focusing on acting, his versatility led to diverse roles, most notably his performance in the cult hit Bunny the Killer Thing (2015).

Olenius’s directorial debut, the critically acclaimed hillbilly horror Kyrsyä – Tuftland (2017), marked his arrival as a significant filmmaking talent. The film garnered numerous accolades, including Best Feature Director at the Other Worlds Austin Sci-fi Film Festival, recognizing his skill both behind and in front of the camera as a producer. His second directorial feature, the suspenseful figure skating thriller Free Skate (2022), further solidified his reputation.

As an actor Olenius has captivated audiences with his acting work in the celebrated Finnish television series Ex-onnelliset (2016-) and the psychological thriller Red Static (2021), for which he also served as a producer. Upcoming projects include starring roles in the highly anticipated films Punainen Peto (TBA), Backwood Madness (TBA), and Wild Duck (TBA).

Together with his spouse Veera W. Vilo, Olenius runs a production company called Bright Fame Pictures. They reside in Espoo, Finland with their three children. Before his film career he pursued professional careers as an ice-hockey goalkeeper and heavy metal musician, experiences that undoubtedly inform his dynamic and multifaceted approach to storytelling.