Film - thisisFINLAND

Filming the unusual story of Moomin creator Tove Jansson in Helsinki

We speak to director Zaida Bergroth about a film that shows viewers a new side of Finland’s Tove Jansson, the much-loved writer and artist who created the world-famous Moomin stories.

Arts & culture Visual arts

New audiences continue to find Finland’s number one painter, Helene Schjerfbeck

Early in 2020, record-breaking attendance at Helsinki’s Ateneum Art Museum and the release of a feature film signalled that artist Helene Schjerfbeck is getting much-deserved attention from audiences of all ages. We talk with actor Laura Birn and curator Anna-Maria von Bonsdorff.

Life & society ThisisFINLAND Magazine

Finnish actor Jasper Pääkkönen is raising awareness

Fisherman, businessman, actor: In these three roles Jasper Pääkkönen combines his passions and missions.

Arts & culture Equality

Tom of Finland and IDAHOTB both continue to contribute to pride and acceptance

May 8, 2020 marks the 100th birthday of Tom of Finland (1920–91), often called Finland’s most famous artist globally. Shortly after that anniversary, on May 17, the annual International Day against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia (IDAHOTB) takes place.

Arts & culture Webpick

7 movies to see at Helsinki’s DocPoint Festival

Female directors march to the fore at the documentary film fest DocPoint in 2020.

Arts & culture Film

“I have to get me some of this”: Finnish films and TV series you should watch

More than 40 Finnish films premiered in 2018, and Netflix is discovering popular Finnish TV dramas. Our list of recommendations points you to the boldest new Finnish cinema and streaming.

Life & society Finnishness

Mayday, mayday: Things get crazy in Finland around May 1

It wouldn’t be a lie simply to say that Finnish people celebrate May Day, but it wouldn’t be the whole truth, either. They really let loose, and we’ve got it on video.

Arts & culture Film

Finnish movie rides heavy metal wave onto silver screen

The guys in “Heavy Trip” might not look very intimidating, but they’re the Finnish metal band Impaled Rektum, and they’re determined to reach a festival gig in Norway, through hell and high water.