Finnish writer-director Hanna Västinsalo, who won an HFPA Special Prize at the Venice Film Festival for her debut feature “Palimpsest,” is preparing her sophomore project, “Will O’ the Wisp.” The film, set for production this fall, expands on the narrative of her 2009 short that led to her studying directing at AFI. “Will O’ the Wisp” is set in 19th century Finland and follows Elina, a courageous young woman who chooses resilience over despair. She embarks on a tumultuous journey, navigating motherhood and survival when offered redemption by enigmatic water spirits.
The script, co-written by Västinsalo and Cyril Abraham, will be produced by Abraham for Thinkseed Films in Finland. Reel Suspects is handling international sales. Matteo Lovadina of Reel Suspects expressed excitement about the project, praising Västinsalo’s distinct directorial voice and the captivating script.
Västinsalo’s first feature, “Palimpsest,” released in 2022, is a sci-fi tale about elderly roommates selected for a gene therapy trial that rejuvenates their bodies while retaining their memories. The film was supported by a Biennale College Cinema grant and led to Västinsalo’s participation in the HFPA and Film Independent’s residency program in Los Angeles.
Her previous work includes the shorts “Man Under Bridge” and “Wombsong,” which garnered nominations for Best VR Story at Venice 2020 and Best Virtual Reality Film at the 2019 NYC Independent Film Festival, respectively. Västinsalo, who holds a Ph.D. in molecular genetics from the University of Helsinki, has received multiple awards and grants from various foundations.
Bernie Cahill and Jon Kanak of Activist Artists Management represent Västinsalo and are attached to “Will O’ the Wisp” as executive producers.
