Visualizing queer lives: Artist biopics in contemporary Nordic film

In recent years, Nordic cinema has turned its lens towards queer artists of the twentieth century. This article examines three recent biopics, Tom of Finland (2017), Tove (2020) and Hilma (2022), all focusing on renowned Scandinavian artists whose career trajectories were influenced by their sexual identities and the social norms of their times. Drawing on several theoretical models, the article reflects on their representations in the context of biopic conventions and more broadly considers how the film medium can be used to reinscribe artists of the past in a shared cultural memory.