Helsinki Film Festival Unleashes Cinema for Change: Meet Pauliina Ståhlberg's Vision for a Kinder World

"The Good Guys": Helsinki Film Festival Head Pauliina Ståhlberg on Making the World a Better Place Through Cinema As the 38th edition of the Helsinki International Film Festival Love Anarchy kicks off, the city's cinematic scene is buzzing with excitement. But amidst the glamour and glitz, there's a sense of change in the air. Long-time artistic director Pekka Lanerva has stepped down from his operational role, making way for incoming executive director Pauliina Ståhlberg to take the reins. We caught up with Ståhlberg ahead of opening night to talk about her vision for the festival and how film can be a powerful tool for creating positive change. Ståhlberg's passion for cinema is palpable as she greets us in a cozy Helsinki café, surrounded by the city's vibrant street art scene. "Film has the power to transport us, to challenge our perspectives, and to bring people together," she says with conviction. As we chat, it becomes clear that Ståhlberg is not just a film enthusiast – she's a true believer in the medium's potential for good. The Helsinki International Film Festival Love Anarchy has long been a staple of Finland's cultural scene, showcasing the best of international and local cinema to audiences from around the world. But with Ståhlberg at the helm, there's a sense that this year's edition will be something special. "We're not just about showing films – we're about creating an experience," she explains. "Our goal is to make the world a better place through film." Ståhlberg's commitment to using cinema as a force for good is evident in the festival's programming, which features a diverse range of films that tackle tough topics like social justice, environmentalism, and human rights. "We're not just about entertainment – we're about sparking conversations, challenging our audiences, and inspiring change," she says. But what sets Ståhlberg apart from other film festival directors is her unique approach to programming. Rather than relying on traditional industry wisdom, she's committed to taking risks and pushing boundaries. "We want to be the good guys," she says with a smile. "We're not just about showcasing the latest blockbusters – we're about supporting emerging talent, promoting diversity, and celebrating the underdog." As we talk, it becomes clear that Ståhlberg is not just a film festival director – she's a true artist at heart. Her passion for cinema is infectious, and her commitment to using film as a tool for positive change is inspiring. As the Helsinki International Film Festival Love Anarchy kicks off its 38th edition, one thing is certain: with Pauliina Ståhlberg at the helm, audiences can expect an unforgettable cinematic experience that will leave them feeling inspired, challenged, and maybe even changed. The Future of Cinema As we wrap up our conversation, it's clear that Ståhlberg has big plans for the future of the festival. With her commitment to using film as a force for good, she's poised to make a real impact on the industry. "We're not just about making films – we're about creating a movement," she says with conviction. As the lights dim and the curtains open on this year's edition of the Helsinki International Film Festival Love Anarchy, one thing is certain: Pauliina Ståhlberg and her team are ready to take the world by storm. With their commitment to using cinema as a tool for positive change, they're poised to inspire a new generation of filmmakers, audiences, and industry professionals alike. So what can audiences expect from this year's festival? "We're going to push boundaries, challenge perspectives, and celebrate the underdog," Ståhlberg says with a smile. "And most importantly – we're going to make the world a better place through film." *Based on reporting by Variety.*