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Hidden Gájanas

“Hidden Gájanas” is a captivating documentary that explores the fusion of traditional Sámi joik and modern progressive rock through the pioneering band Gájanas. Hailing from the northernmost regions of Finland, Gájanas blends ancient sounds with contemporary music, offering a unique glimpse into the vibrant, living culture of the Sámi people. Directed by Janne Vuorela, this film delves into the band’s creative process, cultural roots, and the broader issues facing Sámi communities today.

  • Janne Vuorela
    Director
    ♥TATTOO, Persian Black Metal Story
  • Janne Vuorela
    Writer
    ♥TATTOO, Persian Black Metal Story
  • Janne Vuorela
    Producer
    ♥TATTOO, Persian Black Metal Story
  • Karo Riikola
    Director of Photography
    Persian Black Metal Story
  • Hildá Länsman
    Key Cast
  • Nicholas Francett
    Key Cast
  • Kevin Francett
    Key Cast
  • Erkki Feodoroff
    Key Cast
  • Niina Siivikko
    Key Cast
  • Janne Hirvasvuopio
    Key Cast
  • Project Type:
    Documentary
  • Genres:
    Music, Indigenous
  • Runtime:
    28 minutes
  • Completion Date:
    October 5, 2024
  • Production Budget:
    0 USD
  • Country of Origin:
    Finland
  • Country of Filming:
    Finland
  • Language:
    English, Finnish
  • Shooting Format:
    Digital
  • Aspect Ratio:
    16:9
  • Film Color:
    Color
  • First-time Filmmaker:
    No
  • Student Project:
    No
  • Hibulb Cultural Center Film Festival
    Tulalip, Washington
    United States
    November 16, 2024
    Official Selection
  • Activists Without Borders Film Festival
    Manchester
    United Kingdom
    November 30, 2024
    Honourable Mention & Honorary Award for Efforts in Social Filmmaking
Director Biography - Janne Vuorela

I'm a music journalist and an independent filmmaker based in Berlin. My goal is to stay truly independent and only tackle topics that inspire and interest me, this has led me to explore wide range of themes like sex work, tattoos and extreme metal music.

Add Director Biography
Director Statement

“Hidden Gájanas” is an evocative documentary that delves into the world of Gájanas, a trailblazing Sámi progressive rock band from the northernmost regions of Finland. The band, consisting of Hildá Länsman, Nicholas Francett, Kevin Francett, and Erkki Feodoroff, is renowned for their innovative blend of traditional Sámi joik and modern rock elements. This film, directed by Janne Vuorela, provides an intimate look at the band’s creative journey, from the deep cultural and emotional connections that inspire their music to the collaborative process that shapes their sound.

Through in-depth interviews with the band members and insights from cultural historian Niina Siivikko and political adviser Janne Hirvasvuopio, the documentary not only captures the unique sound of Gájanas but also sheds light on the broader cultural and political challenges facing the Sámi people. It explores themes of language preservation, cultural identity, and the ongoing struggle against neo-colonialism, all while celebrating the resilience and creativity of Sámi culture.

At its core, “Hidden Gájanas” is a powerful exploration of how tradition and innovation can coexist, offering a vibrant, living narrative of a culture that continues to evolve and thrive in the modern world. Whether you're drawn to the music, the cultural insights, or the personal stories of the band members, this documentary is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of music, culture, and identity.