A E T H E R

Drawing inspiration from the fundamental elements of earth, water, air, and fire, this enchanting circus short film delves into their transformative impact on movement, emotions, and personal growth. Through a captivating fusion of circus disciplines and evocative movements, we embark on an exploration of these elemental forces. Guided by the mantra of self-determination and individuality, the film celebrates the journey we undertake, emphasizing that it is in forging our own path that we truly come alive.

"I define my own identity - I forge my own path - I shape my destiny."

"The true essence lies within the journey, not the final destination."

  • Pinja Seppälä
    Writer & performer
  • Pinja Seppälä
    Producer
  • Mikko Karsisto
    Cinematography
  • Aaron Hakala
    Editing, grading & music
  • Taike - Taiteen edistämiskeskus
    Supported by
  • MSc Electronics Oy
    Supported by
  • Project Type:
    Short, Other
  • Genres:
    Art, Circus, Dance, Circusfilm
  • Runtime:
    9 minutes 53 seconds
  • Completion Date:
    March 15, 2022
  • Country of Origin:
    Finland
  • Country of Filming:
    Finland
  • Language:
    No Dialogue
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    Yes
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Circus International Film Festival
    Online
    April 1, 2023
  • Lisbon Film Rendezvous
    Lisbon
    Portugal
    November 27, 2022
  • Mill of Performing Arts
    Larissa
    Greece
    September 15, 2022
  • Oijoijoi! -festivaali
    Tampere
    Finland
    September 4, 2022
  • La Petit Festival - Hanko
    Hanko
    Finland
    August 19, 2022
  • Salo Circus Festival
    Salo
    Finland
    July 29, 2022
  • Tanssielokuvailta TREnit! Ry
    Tampere
    Finland
    May 20, 2022
  • Bratislava International Film Awards
    Bratislava
    Slovakia
    May 18, 2022
  • Moscow Shorts ISFF
    Moscow
    Russian Federation
    April 16, 2022
Distribution Information
  • Pinja Seppälä
    Country: Finland
    Rights: All Rights
Director Biography

Pinja Seppälä, an accomplished and versatile circus and performing artist from Finland, has graced stages worldwide for almost a decade. With a repertoire that encompasses over 20 distinct disciplines, she has cultivated a wide-ranging skillset that is nothing short of impressive.

In a remarkable collaboration, Pinja has ventured into the realm of filmmaking, teaming up with Mikko Karsisto for cinematography and Aaron Hakala for editing, grading, and music. Together, they have brought to life the extraordinary short film, A E T H E R (2022), a unique fusion of circus disciplines, dance, and movement, intertwined with the breathtaking beauty of the Finnish nature and landscape. As a first-time filmmaker, Pinja has written and produced this cinematic gem, showcasing her artistic vision in a mesmerizing exploration of movement, nature, and artistry.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

My insatiable appetite for learning and my unwavering openness to new ideas and opportunities have always fueled my creative journey. The inception of this film emerged during the challenging times of the Covid-19 pandemic when the avenues for performing and pursuing my craft as a circus artist were restricted.

Immersing myself in extensive research on elements and various circus disciplines, I yearned to craft a masterpiece that would showcase my unique skillset, persona, and thought process. An essential concept guiding this project was to capture the fluidity of movements in a natural environment, unencumbered by stage lights and show effects.