Elina: As If I Wasn't There

2003 • Drama, Family

In rural Sweden of the early 1950s, little Elina goes to school again after recovering from tuberculosis, the same illness that has killed her father a few years earlier. Elina's family belongs to Finnish-speaking Finns frowned upon by a staunch schoolmistress who starts hounding Elina for questioning her authority. Elina's mother, sister, and a liberal young male teacher all try to mediate the ensuing battle of wills between Elina and Miss Holm. Elina finds consolation in wandering out on the dangerous marshlands to have imaginary conversations with her dead father. Written by Markku Kuoppamäki

Runtime: 1h 17m

Dive into the evocative world of Kersti Bergroth’s 'A Clearing in the Forest'. This novel intricately paints the landscape of post-war Finland, captured through the eyes of a young girl navigating a precarious world caught between two cultures. Where the film offers glimpses, the novel immerses you deeply into the protagonist's inner world, showcasing Bergroth’s masterful storytelling that effortlessly blends the personal with the historical. The book expands on themes of identity and belonging, providing readers with richer context and character development that only literature can provide. By choosing to read the novel, you gain not only a deeper understanding of the cultural tensions depicted but also an appreciation for Bergroth's nuanced portrayal of childhood innocence amidst societal upheaval. Discover the source of the film’s inspiration and let Bergroth’s profound narrative envelop you in its timeless beauty.