Screaming Fox Productions, Nordisk Film Sweden Ally With Tekele Productions on ‘Máttáráhká’ by Sámi director Suvi West: ‘Intersectional Version of ‘Barbie’ (EXCLUSIVE)

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Sara Beate Eira from Screaming Fox Productions and Eva Åkergren of Nordisk Film Sweden have joined forces for the Finnish production titled “Máttáráhká” or “When Johan Johanaš Ventured into the Mountains.

Under the direction of Suvi West and Anssi Kömi, this production is brought to you by Julia Elomäki for Tekele Productions. The cinematography is handled by Kerttu Hakkarainen, known for “Heartbeast” and “Natatorium.”

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This film is directed by a duo – Suvi West and Anssi Kömi – produced by Julia Elomäki from Tekele Productions. The camera work is entrusted to Kerttu Hakkarainen, who has previously worked on “Heartbeast” and “Natatorium.

In the film “Máttáráhká,” presented at Goteborg’s Nordic Film Market’s Discovery Co-production Platform, Máret – a filmmaker – resides in a picturesque locale teeming with predators. Frustrated by her culture’s sexism and apathy, her life undergoes a transformation through a passionate relationship with Johan Johanaš. This relationship empowers her to address past sexual traumas and forge her unique journey.

Suvi West explained to EbMaster that the project she’s working on is more like a comedy to her, though it might seem dark and surreal due to her unique perspective. She considers it an empowering endeavor, describing it as an intersectional take on the classic toy, ‘Barbie’.

The atmosphere is both eerie and enchanting, with a touch of magical surrealism. Although it contains themes of potential sexual danger, it’s not primarily defined as a violent movie. It strays from realistic portrayals in that regard.”

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“It’s a blend of the ominous and the fantastical, with hints of magical realism. While it tackles sensitive themes related to sexual violence, it doesn’t fit the mold of a brutally violent film. It differs from typical realistic depictions in this aspect.

Rather than anchoring her tale within a particular era, the Sámi filmmaker aimed to create an experience that transcends time.

This setting spans from the 16th century to the present day, but it’s a fictional realm rather than a real-world location. In the Sámi perspective, time isn’t a straight line; instead, it forms a cycle, and everything is interconnected. So, I constantly bear my past and future within me.

In “Máttáráhká,” women are told they have a certain role in society.  

Máret appears to be responsible for everyone and everything, yet she maintains control over her own personhood. However, this isn’t the typical matriarchal system. Instead, she is often held accountable for other men’s actions. Máret feels burdened by these values and is considering leaving.

Luckily, she has someone special to look up to: Julia Roberts in “Pretty Woman.”  

She aspires to emulate this individual; she yearns to travel to Europe and make a name for herself in television. Eager to break free from her conventional upbringing, she’s still working towards her goal. When she encounters this man, her spiritual abilities intensify. However, upon reaching Europe, she discovers that the woman’s status isn’t any more advantageous there. She feels compelled to return and rectify her society using her powers; one of them is the ability to tell compelling stories.

West is recognized for her thought-provoking documentary films, “Eatnameamet – Our Hidden Battle” and “Homecoming.” However, storytelling in fiction isn’t a departure for her; instead, it seems more like a change of direction.

Returning home stirs up familiar feelings for me, as I initially delved into creating humorous narratives centered around sexuality and femininity. After leaving Sápmi land, I felt compelled to contribute, so I immersed myself in the struggle of decolonization as a filmmaker. Now that I’ve helped my society, I can finally relax. Coming back home reminds me of who I was at 16 years old, and I’m ready to face that past version of myself once more.

West is also working on a novel, out in May. 

Additionally, it paints a dreamlike landscape. Undeniably, a movie centered on women’s empowerment carries political undertones. However, in this instance, I’m not creating it for global consumption. Instead, I’m making it for my own personal fulfillment.

Producer Julia Elomäki stated, “Suvi is an innovative movie director. Reading the initial draft of the script several years ago left me feeling overpowered. The reading encounter was truly remarkable.

Wondering how one can articulate such profound themes as self-discovery, love, identity, pain, and societal taboos so elegantly within a feature film script? I’m thrilled to collaborate with Eva Åkergren and Sara Beate Eira on this project, making it a co-production between Sweden, Norway, and Sápmi. In the current climate, I believe our offbeat tale infused with dark humor serves as an ideal sanctuary.

Now, Elomäki and Marja Pihlaja have taken over Helsinki-based Tekele Productions. Elomäki referred to this transition as “significant not only in terms of professional growth, but also on a personal level.” Miia Haavisto, the founder and producer, remains a partner and CEO within the company.

Máttáráhká” is set to be the sixth feature film from Tekele Productions, following titles like “Eden,” “Bad Women,” and “Butterflies.” Currently, “Summer is Crazy” by Ulla Heikkilä is in post-production.

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2025-01-30 13:17