Finntastic: New Finnish Cinema

Sunday Showcase

Tove
Directed by Zaida Bergroth

Sunday, August 27, 12:30 pm

FREE

“Alma Pöysti is luminous as Jansson, bringing to life her playful, pleasure-seeing artist’s spirit.”—Simran Hans, Observer

In the midst of her artistic struggles and unconventional personal life, Tove Jansson found worldwide success from an unexpected side project–the creation of the beloved world of the Moomins. Tove is a captivating drama about the creative energy of an iconic talent and her turbulent search for identity, desire, and freedom.

Set in post-WWII Helsinki, the end of the war brings a new sense of artist and social freedom for Tove–modern art, dizzying parties, and an open relationship with a married politician. Tove’s desire for liberty is put to test when she meets theater director Vivica Bandler. Her love for Vivica is electric and all-consuming, but Tove begins to realize the love may not be reciprocated.

While her personal life provides struggles, her creative endeavors take her in an unexpected direction. While focusing on painting, the work that started as a side project–melancholic, haunting tales of the Moomins creatures–rapidly takes on a life of its own. The exploits of the Moomins, infused with inspiration from her own life, brings Tove international fame and financial independence. 2022, Finland/Sweden, DCP, in Finnish, Swedish, English, and French with English subtitles, 103 minutes. Recommended for 15+

Finntastic: New Finnish Cinema is a touring program offered by the Finnish Film Foundation celebrating a new generation of female filmmakers.  Special thanks to Arttu Mannien and Alissa Simon for their programming assistance.