European Genre Forum
Blood - The devil in Helsinki
A vampire turns a mother to save her child, but bloodlust forces them into a deadly battle.
In Helsinki, a centuries-old vampire turns a desperate mother to reclaim her stolen child, but as the fledgling’s bloodlust threatens exposure, their bond fractures into a deadly battle—only one can survive.
Main production country: Finland
Subjects:
motherhood, revenge, death, love
Director's note
After reading BLOOD – The Devil in Helsinki first time, I was completely drawn in. I laughed, I cried, I was horrified, and I trembled. Howard Brodsky has created a vampire story that’s not about survival or seduction, but about finding one’s destiny. At its heart is the pain of a mother who has lost her child—a grief that shapes every moment of her endless life. Does time truly heal, or are some wounds too deep, lingering for eternity? Our main character—trapped in her own body for decades - searches for meaning beyond the thrills she’s experienced countless times before. The film’s tone is dark yet laced with lightness and humor, pulling you in and holding you there. The characters feel real, the acting authentic, and the central relationship is magnetic—think Notting Hill, but much darker. The paintings and artwork adds a surreal, almost deceptive layer to the story - blurring truth and illusion in a way only art can. I want to tell this story because it offers a fresh, deeply human twist to the vampire genre. It’s about loss, love, revenge and the courage to keep going - and I believe it will touch, grip, and even amuse audiences.
Viivi Huuska
Producer's note
"BLOOD," a compelling vampire thriller, which unfolds against the backdrop of Helsinki's stark landscapes. Shot in a mix of English and Finnish, the film leverages the public financing available in Nordic countries. Director Viivi Huuska, an emerging force in Finnish cinema with a successful background in photography and commercial and TV series direction, brings her distinct vision to this atmospheric tale. The production is actively seeking an international star for the pivotal role of Rose de Ville, while the remaining cast will feature leading Nordic talents. "BLOOD" promises a gripping narrative set against the enigmatic shadows of Helsinki, Finland

Aleksi is a Finnish film producer, writer, and co-founder of DON FILMS, with over 20 years of industry experience. In 2022, he produced THE TWIN, an English-language horror with a theatrical release in 34 countries, and JINGLE BELLS, a local comedy hit. Currently he is producing ELLA AND FRIENDS and executive producing DELIVERY RUN. Recent co-productions include THERE'S SOMETHING IN THE BARN, PARANOIA and Netflix’s HOLD YOUR BREATH: THE ICE DIVE. Aleksi is a member of the EFA.
