Nordic Film Series to host Bruce Crossing-based film on November 9

Bruce Crossing-based filmmaker Kristin Ojaniemi traveled to Finland earlier this year to conduct interviews for her latest documentary. If she goes to Finland next year, it could be for a screening of her film.

Kristin Ojaniemi of Bruce Crossing will be on site for the Nordic Film Series presentation of Co-operatively Yours on Thursday, November 9 at 2 and 6 p.m. in the Finnish American Heritage Center.

But in the meanwhile, she’ll be in Hancock on November 9 for a pair of screenings of her latest work.

Purchase Co-operatively Yours DVD

A few months ago, Ojaniemi completed production on a documentary titled “Co-operatively Yours,” which chronicles the Finnish co-operative movement in North America through the story of Settlers Co-op in Bruce Crossing, which celebrated its centennial this year.

Since its release on DVD earlier this year, the film has made its way to households and businesses across the United States – and even managed to “cross the pond” in a rather significant way. The Finnish national broadcasting company, YLE, has purchased exclusive rights to show the film in Finland, and has already indicated they will show the documentary at least three times during 2018.

“I am so excited,” Ojaniemi said upon hearing about YLE’s offer. “I feel like I just won an Oscar.”

Those who can’t make it to Finland to enjoy the international premiere of “Co-operatively Yours” don’t need to worry, though. They’ll have an opportunity to see the film – and on the “big screen” no less – at Finlandia University’s Finnish American Heritage Center (FAHC) on Thursday, November 9 at 2 p.m. or 6 p.m. as part of the Center’s Nordic Film Series. Ojaniemi will attend both screenings and be available for questions after each showing. Also, copies of the film on DVD will be available for sale.

The 72-minute documentary – a cooperative project with the FAHC — uses interviews, historic photos and narration to delve into the history of the Finnish-American cooperative movement, with a focus on Settlers Co-op, from its humble beginnings in 1917 to the present day, exploring how it evolved from a tiny corner store to the Ontonagon County landmark it is today.

More information about the Nordic Film Series screening of “Co-operatively Yours” can be obtained by calling (906) 487-7302. You can also purchase a copy of the film online through North Wind Books.