Finnish Film Affair 24

“Women named Pauliina is a vital and necessary project because it dives deep into the complex layers of identity, appearance, and societal expectations placed on women,” director Punkki tells BDE ahead of her FFA presentation of the project. “Through the unique and powerful stories of two women [Punkki herself and professional bodybuilder Pauliina Talus] the film addresses issues that are rarely explored in mainstream media, making it essential for both investment and audience engagement.”

The Finnish Weird (F-Weird) programme of FFA, which runs 25-27 September, is described as “a playground for your wildest ideas and a party for your extravagant thoughts.” The two doc projects (out of an overall selection of twenty) are the Indian/Czech ‘Death. Karma. Moksha.’ by Roy Dipankar, and the Finnish ‘Postpartum – Are You Ready for the Challenge’ by Milla Puolakanaho.

Six new Finnish feature documentaries and one doc series will be presented during the upcoming edition of Finnish Film Affair, 25-27 September. Other features of FFA 2024 include a spotlight on avenues and means of co-production with other countries, including India. Award-winning producer Rakasree Basu will deliver a crucial keynote talk, ‘Co-producing with India’, offering insights for buyers and key industry players.

Finnish Weird (aka F-Weird) is Finnish Film Affair's new pitching session, which will showcase up-and-coming talent presenting the most daring and unexplored ideas across a wide range of formats, including docs. "We want FFA to be known worldwide as the event where the most unique and pioneering film, TV and transmedia projects are pitched; the projects that you won't come across elsewhere,” says Alisha Hasan, Head of Industry. FFA runs September 25-27.