Transnational History of Finnish Cinema

Over the past few years transnational issues have emerged as a major new approach to the study of film culture. Transnational studies both challenge and complement the writing of national film histories by seeking to explore how film culture has always and everywhere connected with developments that have transcended national limits. This can be seen in the fields of technology, economy, production as well as aesthetics and contents – not to speak of ideological trends. Also Finnish film culture has at different phases and in different ways been structured by a tension between the need to develop a national film industry on the one hand, and seeking ideas and inspiration from abroad on the other. Thus it is clear that exploration of transnational aspects is essential for any attempt to gain a comprehensive view of the development of Finnish film culture.

Transnational History of Finnish Cinema is a tree-year research project (2012-2014) funded by Academy of Finland. The project has its base at the Department of Philosophy, History, Culture and Arts Studies at the University of Helsinki and is headed by Henry Bacon, professor of Film and Television Studies. Oher members are mid-career and young scholars who have specialized in Finnish cinema: Kimmo Laine, Pietari Kääpä, Anneli Lehtisalo, Jaakko Seppälä and Outi Hupaniittu. As the members of the group have their background at different universities and even in different disciplines, it will be possible to carry out this wide-ranging project in a suitably multidisciplinary way. Our national and international seminars will also provide a forum for fellow colleagues working on similar lines both in Finland and abroad. 

More about the project