This July at Scandinavia House, see the hit Finnish film Tove (Finland, 2020; dir. Zaida Bergroth), based on the life of Moomins creator Tove Jansson!
In 1945 Helsinki, the end of World War II has brought a new sense of artistic and social freedom for aspiring painter Tove Jansson. Modern art, dizzying parties and an open relationship with a married politician have put her at odds with her sculptor father’s strict ideals; and when she meets theater director Vivica Bandler, Tove’s desire for liberty is further put to the test as she finds herself immersed in an all-consuming love that she longs to have reciprocated. Meanwhile, her creative endeavors are taking her in an unexpected direction as a side project based on the tales she once told to frightened children in bomb shelters rapidly takes on a life of its own; inspired by her own life, the exploits of the Moomins soon bring Tove international fame and financial freedom, with a daily comic strip, a stage play, and stories that delight readers around the world.
As Tove begins to discover her artistic identity, she must break away from unrequited love in order to be free. A captivating drama, Tove portrays the iconic talent’s creative energy and her turbulent search for identity, desire and freedom. (117 min. In Swedish with English subtitles.)
“Tove beguiles audiences into the world of its characters”—Variety
Tickets to this event must be purchased in advance online at the link above. Screenings will take place in Victor Borge Hall; ticket sales are capped at 80 per showing. Attendees are required to follow all Scandinavia House safety protocols, including presenting a Vaccination Card at the front desk to remove masks during the program and observing social distancing rules in signage. Please read our full safety protocols here.
ABOUT THE DIRECTOR
Zaida Bergroth was born in Finland and studied directing at Helsinki’s School of Motion Picture, Television and Production Design. She has directed the features Last Cowboy Standing (09), The Good Son (11), and Miami (17). Tove (20) is her most recent film.
See a film talk on Tove with director Zaida Bergroth and lead actor Alma Pöysti: