Nordic Film Series to show biographical drama The Girl King

Queen Christina of Sweden’s reign lasted only a decade in the 17^th century, during a time when her nation was engaged in one of the most destructive conflicts in European history. Her story is so intriguing, it captured the interest of several filmmakers.

Noted Finnish director Mika Kaurismäki explored Christina’s life in his 2015 production The Girl King, and that film will show as the November installment of the Nordic Film Series Thursday, November 10 at 2 and 6 p.m. at Finlandia University’s Finnish American Heritage Center.

Apart from her political expertise, Christina is known as one of the most brilliant and intellectual women of her time. She had an unquenchable thirst for education and a passion for music, art and alchemy. Rising each morning at dawn, she studied under French philosopher René Descartes and a number of renowned foreign writers, musicians and scholars. Under her rule, the first Swedish newspaper and country-wide school ordinance were established.

Christina was crowned at age 6 after her father died in battle. Raised as a prince under a conservative Lutheran court, Christina began to rule at the age of 18, quickly challenging everyone’s expectations in an all-male court by taking the lead and fearlessly rejecting its conservative rules.

The film is about 1 hour and 40 minutes long, and is in English. Some material portrayed within may be unsuitable for children.

The Nordic Film Series is part of the Finnish American Heritage Center’s community enrichment programming. Films are open to the public; donations are appreciated. For more information about this month’s feature, call (906) 487-7347.