Sweden has a distinguished history in the field of early cinema, and the pre-eminent expert on this history is the Senior Curator of the Swedish Film Institute, Jon Wengström. With an academic background in literature, film and philosophy, Wengström has worked at the institute since 1990. He previously managed the institute’s film screenings before stepped into his role as a curator.
Wengström has extensive knowledge of different film restoration methods, archival principles and early cinema beyond the borders of our western neighbour, which is why he has lectured on these topics in various festivals and film archives worldwide.
Wengström is especially well versed in the oeuvre of the undisputed Swedish master of silent film, Victor Sjöström. He will introduce Sjöström’s American masterpiece He Who Gets Slapped (1924), which will be screened in the festival’s silent film series on Friday.
Wengström’s Masterclass screenings will feature live accompaniment. The selection of early silent film shorts will be accompanied by the Dutch pianist Maud Nelissen.
Kaisu Tervonen