Midnight Sun Film Festival draws over 30,000 visitors annually

The Midnight Sun Film Festival in Sodankylä, now in its 41st year, attracts more than 30,000 visitors annually, drawing attendees from around the world regardless of weather, according to a report by Yle.

In a video feature, Yle reporter Maija-Liisa Juntti and cameraman Juuso Stoor explore the elusive “spirit of Sodankylä” that defines the festival’s unique atmosphere. While some believe it emerges in the grand tent just before a screening, others sense it along the village streets. Film enthusiast Topi Borg humorously suggests he found it in the outhouse just before entering the cinema.

This year’s festival, running from 10 to 14 June, includes a strong lineup of music-themed films. Highlights feature karaoke screenings led by Marjo Leinonen performing Elvis songs and Pola Ivanka hosting a sing-along to the cult musical Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. Selma Vilhunen’s Kaunis rietas onnellinen is also presented in a karaoke version.

Other screenings include Tuomari Nurmion 13 kylmää laulua, a concert film, as well as recent documentaries on Jeff Buckley, Boy George, and the late Marianne Faithfull’s final performance.

International guests include American director Susan Seidelman, Mauritian-Malian filmmaker Abderrahmane Sissako, French director Stéphane Brizé, German director İlker Çatak, and Brazilian filmmaker Gabe Klinger.