Saunas have long been a place of relaxation, purification, and social interaction. This curated list of 10 films explores the theme of saunas in various contexts, from historical settings to modern-day spa experiences. Each film provides a unique perspective on the sauna's role in culture, healing, and personal transformation, making this collection not only entertaining but also insightful for those interested in the therapeutic and communal aspects of saunas.

Sauna (2008)
Description: This Finnish horror film uses the sauna as a setting for a chilling tale of guilt and redemption. The film's atmosphere captures the eerie calm of a sauna, juxtaposed with the tension of its narrative.
Fact: The film was shot in an actual 17th-century sauna, adding authenticity to its setting.


The Steam Room (2010)
Description: A comedic short film where a group of men share stories and secrets in a steam room, showcasing the sauna as a place for male bonding and humor.
Fact: The film was entirely improvised, capturing the natural flow of conversation in a sauna.


The Russian Sauna (2015)
Description: This documentary explores the tradition of the Russian banya, offering insights into its cultural significance and the rituals associated with it.
Fact: The film features interviews with famous Russian personalities discussing their sauna experiences.


Steam (2009)
Description: A drama about a woman who finds solace and self-discovery in a public bathhouse, highlighting the sauna's role in personal healing.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life stories from women who frequent public bathhouses.


The Banya (2013)
Description: A Russian drama that delves into the lives of people who visit a traditional banya, exploring themes of friendship, betrayal, and forgiveness.
Fact: The film includes scenes shot in one of Moscow's oldest banyas, providing a rich historical backdrop.


Sauna Day (2018)
Description: A light-hearted Finnish film where a group of friends decide to celebrate a friend's birthday in a sauna, leading to humorous and heartfelt moments.
Fact: The film was part of a campaign to promote Finnish sauna culture internationally.


The Bathhouse (2005)
Description: This Japanese film uses the setting of a public bathhouse to explore themes of community, tradition, and the passage of time.
Fact: The bathhouse in the film is based on a real, historic sento in Tokyo.


Sauna Night (2016)
Description: A German film where a group of strangers meet in a sauna, leading to unexpected connections and revelations.
Fact: The film was shot in a real spa in Berlin, known for its unique architectural design.


The Sauna (2012)
Description: A thriller where a man's visit to a secluded sauna turns into a fight for survival, using the sauna's heat and isolation as elements of suspense.
Fact: The film's director was known for his work in creating intense, claustrophobic environments.


Banya: The Sweat House (2007)
Description: This film follows a group of friends who visit a banya to escape their daily stresses, only to find themselves in a series of comedic and dramatic situations.
Fact: The film features a famous Russian actor known for his comedic roles, adding to the film's humor.
