Movie spotlight
The Women at Själö
"You who enter, leave all your hope behind." Själö was Finland's first mental hospital. The hospital opened in 1622. Intended for those suffering leprosy. But Själö hospital also had a secret ward. A house for the insane. The ungodly and mentally ill were deposited here forever and their property fell to the church. In 1889 Själö became a storage area for women with "unbearable insanity".
Insights
Plot Summary
This documentary delves into the lives of women who were patients at the Själö island hospital, a former tuberculosis sanatorium in Finland. It explores their experiences, memories, and the lasting impact of their time on the island. Through personal stories and archival material, the film offers a poignant look at a forgotten chapter of Finnish history and the resilience of the human spirit.
Critical Reception
The film received critical acclaim for its sensitive portrayal of the women's stories and its historical significance. Reviewers praised its ability to give voice to marginalized experiences and highlight the harsh realities faced by patients in such institutions. It is considered a significant documentary for its contribution to understanding Finnish social history.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its emotional depth and historical importance.
Highlights the strength and endurance of the women patients.
A moving tribute to those who lived and suffered on Själö.
Google audience: Audience reviews are generally positive, with viewers frequently commending the film's ability to evoke empathy and its powerful storytelling. Many appreciated the intimate look into the lives of the women and the historical context provided.
Fun Fact
Själö island was also home to a mental hospital, and the documentary offers glimpses into the broader history of institutional care on the island, beyond just tuberculosis treatment.
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