Tale(s) of a Forest—Re-Creation of a Primeval Forest in Three Environmental Narratives

Abstract

We analyze three environmentally conscious works that are concerned with the state of Finnish forests: the documentary film Metsän tarina/Tale of a Forest (2012), the book with the same name (2013) and the series of short documentaries Tarinoita metsästä/Tales from the Forest (2013). By combining methods from arts research and ecology, we ask how the narratives adapt material from nature photography. The film and book present mythic stories and old Finnish beliefs about forests. They also contain references to cultural memory. Additionally, the biodiversity on display reflects a conventional practice to exhibit large or charismatic species. However, the ecological message remains only implicit, expressed through aesthetic choices rather than information about natural processes. Overall, we suggest that adaptation in these narratives can be understood as an artistic process of recycling and referencing and as a way to reconnect with cultural memory and nature. As such, it can enhance relationships with nature and awareness of conservation needs. However, we ask whether the past-oriented strategy is a politically effective way to activate a connection with nature in modern Finland, where discussions about environmental problems are closely connected to heated debates about forestry.

Rakkaudesta nilviäiseen

“…Luontodokumenttien kohdalla tämä keskustelu tiivistyy usein niiden välittämän totuuden ympärille. Esimerkiksi Metsän tarina -luontoelokuvan esitystä suomalaisesta metsästä on kyseenalaistettu, sillä elokuva esittää metsän sellaisena kuin suomalaiset metsät ovat laajemmassa mitassa olleet esiteollisella ajalla (Hiltunen et al 2020).…”

Introduction: The Art of Adaptation in Film and Video Games

“…Other subjects discussed in the interview include how to design narrative games for emotional impact, and the potential of games to help players learn and change. Hiltunen et al (2020) study three texts relating to Finnish forests-the film Tale of a Forest (2012), the book Tale of a Forest (2013), and a series of short documentaries called Tales from the Forest (2013)-with a focus on how each works as an environmentally conscious narrative. The film, for instance, presents images of primeval Finnish forests (which can be considered nostalgic and escapist, but still promote awareness about ecological issues), while the book and documentary series take alternative approaches, such as discussing contemporary forestry practices in an attempt to educate audiences.…”