Kati Kallio & Tanssiryhmä Ihanat GEN Z dance film trilogy

Gen Z film trilogy spotlights three young talented dance artists Minttu Heinonen, Sofia Johansson and Vappu Virkkula. Each of these dancers takes on a leading role, showcasing their own unique speciality, such as Down Syndrome which brings their superpower on screen, and in life.

The trilogy is a collaborative effort of Riina Hannuksela and Elisa Lejeune, facilitating artists of the Ihanat Company, and  dancer-filmmaker Kati Kallio. Together they were committed to involving Sofia, Vappu and Minttu in the creative process from script writing to inspiring performances on screen, with each dancer contributing in their unique ways.

Through this collaboration, the film trilogy not only celebrates the talent and creativity of these young artists but also aims to inspire and uplift audiences worldwide. The trilogy captures the power of inclusivity, showcasing the magic that unfolds when diverse perspectives converge to create something truly extraordinary.

The premiere of the film trilogy will be at the Outsider Art Festival 2023 in Helsinki. Firstly, on the Night of the Arts (17th August) at the National Museum of Finland, and secondly, at Kino Regina in the Helsinki Central Library Oodi on Saturday 19th of August at 11:00 a.m. After the premiere, the films will tour dance, dance film and film festivals.

FILMS:

Pinkki, 7’30, 2023, Fi

Minttu’s film Pinkki (Pink) focuses on her unique way of creating choreography through touch. In her dance, touch informs, guides and makes visible her way of being with others. Another theme that emerges in the film is reciprocity between dancers and its importance for an equal encounter. Everyone can take turns to direct and be directed when there is trust between people and the conditions are just right for such a dialogue.

MustA, 6’00, 2023, Fi

The idea and movement material of MustA is inspired by show wrestling and especially by the strong female characters in it. Sofia, Elisa and Riina often work together as choreographers. For Sofia, it is important to be seen as a strong and triumphant character who is not discouraged by challenges or opponents. Despite this, there is always a touch of light-hearted humor in her artistry. The script is written as closely as possible to Sofia’s ideas.

Sininen, 9’50, 2023, Fi

Sininen (The Blue) is a fairytale fantasy of a bird-like figure in the embrace of the forest. The central character of the film has evolved over the years as Vappu has searched for her power figure through dance and movement. The film depicts gentle strength and magical skills, independence and a self-directed ability to create life, meaning and encounters around her. Each of us has something unique to pass on. The script was written together with the performers and choreographed by Vappu Virkkula.