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In ‘Raptures,’ Director Jon Blahed Looks Beyond ‘Juiciest Stories’ About Real-Life 1930s Cult and Hopes to Let Go of Shame (EXCLUSIVE)


Jon Blahed takes on real-life 1930s cult the Korpela movement in upcoming period drama ‘Raptures’ with Jessica Grabowsky and Alma Poysti.

Inspired by the so-called “Korpela Movement” – a controversial religious sect that first emerged in Northern Sweden and was later known for its apocalyptic beliefs and unorthodox rituals, as well as sexual practices – he wasn’t looking to spread gossip. “I love Finnish films, my dad is from Finland and I am so happy everyone wanted to be a part of it, also because we shot in a dying language they don’t actually speak: in Meänkieli,” he reveals. Picture Tree International’s Andreas Rothbauer adds: “Beside its historic setting, the subject is timely for today, if not timeless ­– with so many examples throughout history where the thin line between devotion and delusion becomes blurry.”

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