POV Season 19 Episode 3 Tintin and I

In POV's season 19 episode 3 titled "Tintin and I," viewers are taken on a fascinating journey through the life and work of Tove Jansson, the creator of the beloved Moomin books. Jansson was a Finnish-Swedish writer and artist who found immense success and recognition in the mid-twentieth century, but is still largely unknown outside of Scandinavia.

The episode begins with Jansson's niece Sophia recounting memories of her iconic aunt and her complicated but loving relationship with her father, Tove's brother, the sculptor Per Olov Jansson. Through Sophia's anecdotes and Jansson's own interviews, we learn about the tumultuous events that influenced her work, including World War II and the post-war era, as well as her complex personal life and relationships.

Jansson began her professional career as a political cartoonist, addressing controversial topics such as fascism and gender equality in her work. However, it wasn't until she started writing and illustrating the Moomin books that she gained widespread popularity and critical acclaim. Her whimsical and surreal stories, which blended elements of fairy tales, mythology, and satire, captured the hearts of both children and adults.

One of the most interesting aspects of the episode is its exploration of Jansson's personal life, particularly her relationship with Vivica Bandler, a theater director and writer who was her partner for over a decade. Jansson never publicly identified as a lesbian, but her letters and diaries reveal a deep love and emotional intimacy between the two women.

Another compelling storyline in the episode involves Jansson's experience of aging and mortality. Throughout her life, Jansson was fiercely independent and never married or had children. As she grew older, she began to grapple with the idea of leaving behind a legacy and the fear of being forgotten. Her reflections on these topics are poignant and insightful, and provide a unique perspective on the human condition.

Overall, "Tintin and I" is a beautifully crafted tribute to one of the most imaginative and unconventional artists of the last century. Through interviews with Jansson's family and friends and rare archival footage, viewers are transported into Jansson's world and gain a deeper understanding of her creative process and personal struggles. Whether you're a longtime Moomin fan or have never heard of Tove Jansson before, this episode is sure to leave a lasting impression.