The realm of snow and ice gives in. A short film from ninety years ago shows how people can enjoy nature while using it for their own benefit and amusement – sledging, swimming in a hole in the ice, and ski jumping. Ice breaks at the bow of icebreaker Tarmo, shipping continues regardless of the season. Winter becomes a stage.
The progress of the icebreaker feels like a symbol of the modernisation and urbanisation of the world: slow but inevitable. The relationship with nature is still carefree. The joys of winter are taken for granted, and the urban core of Finland produces images that would seem like a fairy tale to a foreign tourist. Perhaps winter is just the reason for the carnival, where reindeer are used as props. But the people’s joy seems all the more genuine.
Olipa kerran talvi – ja lunta brings greetings from a time of innocence. At the Midnight Sun Film Festival, it will be presented with the accompaniment of The Shubie Brothers led by Janne Haavisto.
Olipa kerran talvi – ja lunta will be screened before Decalogue I by Krzysztof Kieślowski
Veli-Matti Huhta