Helsinki-filmi Debuts ‘Icebreaker’ Trailer, Taps Director Jojo Erholtz for ‘Dead Women Talking’: ‘Bold, Addictive, Modern Addition to the World of Crime Dramas’ (EXCLUSIVE)

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The Helsinki-based Finnish film studio, Finland’s Helsinki-filmi, is prepared to listen to the script for “Dead Women Talking,” a new series that will be helmed by director Jojo Erholtz.

In the style initially envisioned by Johanna Holvikallio, under the leadership of Tua Harno, the story follows two determined journalists, Olivia and Noora, who are presenting a podcast focusing on crimes committed against women. However, an unsolved series of murders from several decades ago in a small town could potentially endanger their lives.

According to Mia Ylönen, who heads drama production, it’s still wise to invest in original concepts. Tales featuring captivating yet identifiable themes will undoubtedly attract audiences.

The Finnish have excelled in creating distinctive concepts, from Nordic Noir and ‘Finnish Weird.’ In our own production endeavors, we aim to showcase emerging talents and underrepresented groups, while ensuring that the resulting film or series appeals to a broad audience.

It’s been noted by producer Anniina Leppänen that true crime podcasts are particularly “very much enjoyed” or “extremely favored” by many young women.

She expressed her conviction that the theme of this show connects profoundly with its intended audience, a connection she’s observed over years of listening. It’s intriguing to delve into why this style is so captivating to women, given that true crime publications and documentaries have been prevalent for quite some time.

This show is a contemporary, captivating take on crime dramas, offering a daring new angle. Although it delves into the sensitive subject of violence against women – an issue of grave importance that demands attention – it does so from an innovative standpoint. Essentially, it provides a platform for women’s voices, representing both the investigators and the victims.

In this developing series, the bond between the principal characters infuses it with warmth and laughter. Instead of being represented as impersonal data, women will have distinct personalities.

“The characters in this series are complex, three-dimensional people who have their own hopes, goals, and viewpoints. Despite delving into serious and weighty topics, it still manages to be a captivating crime drama filled with intriguing puzzle pieces.

Jojo Erholtz, a filmmaker based in Helsinki who is known for creating “Detective Maria Kallio” and “Soulmates”, and is currently working on her first full-length feature with Aamu Film Company, which also produced Juho Kuosmanen’s successful films, was thrilled to receive the call.

She shared that what captivated her was the intricate plotline and compelling characters. The tale unfolds across two distinct timeframes, with contemporary heroes delving into a murder from the 1980s. An innovative approach to storytelling is used by incorporating podcast-style narration and sound effects as the primary sources of tension and a navigational tool for the series,” she expressed to EbMaster.

Indeed, watching these two courageous heroines stand up for what’s right, even at the cost of their own safety, provides a thrilling, exhilarating ride.

Currently, the scope of Finnish scripts outpaces our financial resources. However, series such as “Dead Women Talking” may serve to establish a lofty standard in the future.

This concept inspires not just the lead artists, but all team members working on it as well. I’m really excited about the idea of a chilling Nordic zombie drama-thriller taking place during the harsh winter. Maybe I should propose this idea to Mia?

Prior to the TV Drama Vision of Göteborg, Helsinki-filmi unveiled a unique preview for the eagerly awaited “Icebreaker.” This production, helmed by Pete Riski, will make its global debut on AMC+ in Spain on February 13.

Under the guidance of actress Jessica Grabowsky, who portrays a coast guard whose day is spiraling into chaos, the story unfolds around a band of survivors marooned on an abandoned icebreaker. As time passes, they mysteriously begin to vanish, hinting at otherworldly forces potentially involved.

Ylönen stated that both series feature a blend of the predictable and unexpected elements. The show titled ‘Icebreaker’ introduces a mystery thriller in an unprecedented setting – aboard an icebreaker sailing through icy waters. On the other hand, ‘Dead Women Talking’ delves into a murder case within an unconventional environment – a true crime podcast. I think these intriguing ideas, along with robust female characters, make these series stand out in a unique way.

Elisa Viihde-commissioned ‘Icebreaker’ is distributed by APC, while ‘Dead Women Talking’, commissioned by YLE, is a separate production.”

Or simply:

‘Icebreaker’, distributed by APC, is a show commissioned by Elisa Viihde, whereas ‘Dead Women Talking’ is a production that was commissioned by YLE.

We’ll persist in crafting international shows centered around intricate crime and suspense narratives, following in the path of our hit series ‘Codename: Annika.’ This show uniquely combined a familiar theme – an undercover officer – with something unconventional: the realm of art forgery. Our success has always stemmed from developing distinctive drama ideas that capture the audience’s attention and resonate deeply with their emotions.

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2025-01-24 12:18