Maria's Paradise

A young devotee begins to question her faith in a charismatic cult leader in Zaida Bergroth’s hypnotic drama based on a notorious true story.

In 1920s Finland, orphaned teenager Salome finds a sense of belonging with Maria Åkerblom, a charismatic preacher who presides over a group of devoted followers. But when Salome befriends a young woman outside of the community, she begins to question who is telling the truth. As Maria’s influence turns increasingly sinister, Salome must decide where her loyalties lie.

Inspired by the story of the real Maria Åkerblom, a cult leader and convict, Maria’s Paradise premiered at Toronto in 2019. Director Zaida Bergroth subsequently went on to make Tove, Finland’s submission for Best International Feature at the 2021 Academy Awards (and also available to rent on BFI Player).