"TOVE," a film depicting the life of Finnish author Tove Jansson, known as the creator of the Moomin books, will be released nationwide from October 1st at Shinjuku Musashinokan, Bunkamura Le Cinema, Human Trust Cinema Yurakucho, and other theaters.

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The Moomin story is beloved in Japan and around the world. It was created based on the life of Tove Jansson, who began her career as a painter. How were the Moomin characters, which continue to entertain people today through literature, comics, stage plays, animation, and more, developed? This film explores Tove's own life and the secrets of her creation.

© 2020 Helsinki-filmi, all rights reserved
Illustration of the Moomin character "Hemulen"
Upon its release in Finland, the film was met with rave reviews, recording the highest opening performance ever for a Finnish film written in Swedish. It topped the box office rankings for seven consecutive weeks after its release. It also swept numerous film awards, including being selected as Finland's entry for the 93rd Academy Awards® Best International Feature Film.

© 2020 Helsinki-filmi, all rights reservedEnjoying a date with Tove's boyfriend, Atos Virtanen, who is said to have been the inspiration for Snufkin.

■ Synopsis of "Moomintroll"

Helsinki, Finland, during World War II. Amid the raging war, artist Tove Jansson begins to paint the mysterious tale of "Moomintroll" to comfort herself. When the war ended, she rented a studio that had been nearly destroyed by bombing and devoted herself to her main profession, painting. However, she found herself at odds with her strict father, a renowned sculptor, and in conflict with the conservative art world, leading to an unfulfilled life.

© 2020 Helsinki-filmi, all rights reserved
But through a variety of experiences, including hectic parties and romances with young artists, Tove's strong desire for freedom grew stronger as she was inspired by the Moomin stories. Then she met Vivica Bandler, a stage director, and fell passionately in love. It was at this moment that the gears of the Moomin story—and Tove's own—fate—began to turn.