An Amateur's Guide to Moomin (Part 1)

[@HenryKathman]

By popular demand, I have compiled every video in my 'Amateur's Guide to Moomin' into one convenient video, With additional footnotes, corrections, and a newly added section discussing the changes that have occurred with the Moomin series since the publishing of the original videos, watch that here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fIOmq6B4mZqjqas

[@clown-cult96]

As a non American, I keep constantly having to tell people on the internet that the moomins have always been popular and beloved...just not in America.

[@wuhoho4687]

unfortunately, Americans tend to grow up rather self centered in their country! if somethings not a thing it'll be very unlikely for them to know of it and assume that it isn't a big thing because they don't have it jaha often no faults of their own, just how America works I suppose hahaha it's a real shame

[@wuhoho4687]

@Memes For Lunch goodness I meant to put 'some' Americans! I'm very sorry hahah!! it's just you tend to see many more Americans on the Internet of course so their minorities are as loud as many countries majorities! hahah yes but I meant to put some, I wouldn't lump all you lot together there are so many of you!! Hahaha xx

[@wuhoho4687]

@Memes For Lunch :}

[@Mike14264]

Yeah, people say that "this thing was never popular" and I'm like "really? But that was my entire childhood!" and then they're like "well, never popular in my country, that is!" Americans, some of you at least, I know that this may be hard to believe, but just because America is your world, it doesn't mean the entire world is exclusively America.

[@HeartThrobThePony]

As a moomin fan in America I can sadly agree a lot of people are extremely confused by the fact it’s been popular outside of America

[@lazchurchyard1229]

She wouldn't sell to Disney, that's why it's never been a thing in America.

[@kit-ekat8139]

They would've ruined it im sure

[@raymondle2007]

@@kit-ekat8139 Disney doesn't ruin things most of the time, it's the people they put in charge. The Mandalorian is good, even though it's just a series of fetch quest lol. If they put the right people in charge then they make good products and entertainment.

[@moth9659]

@@raymondle2007 Disney is in charge therefore everything’s bad

[@johannanikola-doyle4540]

Disney would have ruined Moomin, I'm forever grateful Jansson never sold out

[@Apusays]

disney is disgusting corporation since they're sold out to some bankers.

[@gr9032]

As a Finnish person living in Finland where Moomins are a huge thing (ofc) this is interesting. Moomins have always been a huge part of my life. Not because I chose it to be that way but because it's basically everywhere here.

[@rosvokisu]

I am Finnish as well, and it certainly sounds very American to dub this as the Moomin renaissance. The Moomins have been so popular and famous for the entirety of my life so can it really be called a renaissance?

[@theotauriainen1193]

Now I don’t live in Finland although I am Swedish/Finnish and moomin have always and will always be my life 😂 and of course my family has those typical moomin mugs. Also I agree with @Jani M

[@elinkomulainen7297]

@@theotauriainen1193 yea i live in Sweden to and we have those types of mugs to.

[@rosvokisu]

@@elinkomulainen7297 @Mr_Awkward can we even try to explain the popularity of moomin mugs to someone who doesn't live here? Don't know if it's the same in sweden but in finland at least it's crazy how basically everyone has them (myself included) and loads of people collect them as well. I find it a little bit amusing tbh

[@elinkomulainen7297]

@@rosvokisu hahah Yea, My Mom Love Them and we Always get a new One when we go to Finland.

[@RainbowMilk1996]

Snufkin: *arrives* *Everyone liked that*

[@dngerouds]

I approve

[@tales-of-fossegrim]

as someone who grew up with the moomins here in finland i have to say this has to be the DEFINITIVE video essay about the moomins. bravo.

[@HenryKathman]

Nom Nom playz msm & more! Not hippos

[@tales-of-fossegrim]

@@nomnomplayzmsmandmore906 moomins are just moomins. simple as that. they do make the comparison joke a couple of times in the series aswell but moomins are always just moomins.

[@alexiswaller3065]

I love the moomins wish they were more popular in the states my mom says I'm little my

[@michellascaux237]

I missed out on the moomin because when i was a kid i had a moomin dvd i think it was Moomins and the comet chase in 3D and i found it wierd and creepy it gave me nightmare so my mom took the dvd away and i never heard of the moomin again. I remember that the eyes of the character was what scared me the most they never blinked. I'm french btw

[@kayleighbrown459]

As someone who grew up with the 90s anime, I gotta tell ya, it was a real trip to suddenly see the childhood dreamland suddenly spring into the public consciousness. There's something a little validating about that. Like, "See. I told you it was awesome" Kinda the same with Avatar.

[@Unknown_crusader]

I absolutely agree. I remember watching moomins as a small child and having nightmares about The Groke and hugging my moomin plushie. And suddenly people are talking about it. It's a bizarre feeling

[@pLanetstarBerry]

As a new fan (I found this series in college a few years back while suffering a cold) I am enjoying how chill the since-childhood fans are. Its a delight hearing things from their perspective, like a somewhat vicarious form of nostalgia. I'm glad you're finding validation in a series you love being enjoyed by new people.

[@kayleighbrown459]

@@pLanetstarBerry I didn't even know there was a fandom for this until recently. It would come on tv and I'd watch it and no one on the playground knew about it so it was just like my own little show made just for me and then everyone started falling in love with it and just feels weirdly cosy.

[@Hunlover123601]

this!

[@ciel2815]

@@pLanetstarBerry right! Most of them are very chill, although there are some who get really angry and say we're ruining their childhood lmao- But I'm glad those are minority

[@pyrolee17]

Moomin is what I call the ultimate meme. It's something you will encounter at some point in your life and it will stay embedded in your mind for decades

[@ryan.1990]

Bruh 💯

[@abbyejones]

i think one of the reasons why is the distinct art style and character designs. i remember when moomin started to get really big in america back in 2019, i couldn't get moomin and snufkin out of my head, simply because they're so easily recognizable and original

[@FMAiscool]

I love the applause you added when Snufkin appeared haha. He is such a lovable character. Thank you for taking the time to research and produce these videos :)

[@moth9659]

You are very humble Snufkin

[@emmamemma4162]

Snufkin is the worst, toying with Moomin's emotions. Fight me!

[@cosmic_seabunny]

@@emmamemma4162 I’m not sure what you mean? How does he “toy” with MoominTroll’s emotions?

[@emmamemma4162]

@@cosmic_seabunny Much like his real life counterpart Aatos Virtanen he disappears for long periods of time without really thinking about how this affects others. To be clear, I don't think he's doing it to be mean, but it makes him seem self-centered and immature.

[@cosmic_seabunny]

@@emmamemma4162 Ah, yes that’s true. He does need to learn how to control that. In MoominValley though he seems to need to get away. I’m thinking maybe it’s social anxiety as he doesn’t seem to be fully comfortable with the idea of leaving MoominTroll suddenly, even if he needs to.

[@Komachichuu]

As much as you may have read this already, this essay for Moomin beginners is outstanding.

[@HenryKathman]

Thank you!

[@jeffwolcott7815]

No fandom truly dies, it just falls asleep until it's rediscovered. Even if it doesn't reach it's height during it's salad days a fandom will have plenty of fans if you know where to look.

[@ciel2815]

this is so lovely because- during 2020, while the "second moomin boom" stopped, I used to say "this fandom isn't dead, it's just hibernating, and it'll wake up soon!". Well, now it seems to be waking up, and I'm glad it is

[@jeffwolcott7815]

@@ciel2815 Hibernating just like the Moomins. I wished I thought of that months ago.

[@Toribell1928]

I used to live in Japan and I miss being able to go to any major shopping area and see moomin themed items all over💕😭 I wish america would get more moomin merchandise but we seem to lag behind with that stuff even if something is popular...

[@ahtijansson9283]

It's the same here where I live in Northern Ireland A book shop called Waterstones and 1 gift shop that only has a few little things is the only places that sell anything. and yet the London has 2 shops! My mum was going to pay for me to go over to London for my 30th but it was too expensive. everything here is slow here there's been offers for various stores to open here but only cafes and coffee shops seem to open. places keep getting turned down

[@Cootiiies]

@@ahtijansson9283 oh if you're ever in Dublin theres an occasional stock of moomin items in hodges figgis!!! I got my moomin light + reusable coffee cup from there!

[@sumsum3873]

it’s because americans are allergic to culture /j

[@loona1363]

Loved it, so cute. And I’m 100% sure everyone joined this fandom for Snufkin

[@bluefoxthecutest2628]

Incorrect

[@bebebebop8050]

I guess the americans did..? I grew up with Mumindalen so I haven’t joined the fandom as much as I’ve always been in it

[@oldmoose25]

not mee 😅

[@kreetuska8645]

Bruh

[@ratsinsocks3589]

I joined because i watched a moomin movie when i was young and thought it was a dream

[@annicasvensson8213]

As a swede I grew up with the Moomins (or Mumin as they are called here), they have been an integrated part of our culture. I'm an avid collector of Arabias Moomin mugs which can be found in almost every Swedish and Finnish household. I really enjoyed your documentary and love all the hard work and research you put into it. It must have taken ages to create the video. Looking forward to part 2.

[@juliehagen2464]

It's cool to see a "svenske" in the comment-section. I am a big collector of Arabias mugs and for me Moomin, or Mummitrollet as we say in Norway, was a huge part of my childhood in the 90's. So cool to read people from Finland, Norway and Sweden in here because I feel Moomin's have a special place in our hearts :) Hei btw.

[@annicasvensson8213]

@@juliehagen2464 Hej. Ja, mumintrollen har verkligen en speciell plats i våra hjärtan. ❤

[@juliehagen2464]

@@annicasvensson8213 Absolutt ❤ Hva er din favoritt episode? 😁

[@ruett1]

Jag letade bland kommentarerna för att hitta andra från Norden. Trevligt att råkas :) Mårran gav verkligen mardrömmar som liten.

[@annicasvensson8213]

@@ruett1 samma här. Var så rädd för Mårran som liten men nu tycker jag mest synd om henne. Törstar efter sällskap, men förevigt dömd till ensamhet.

[@leafyyay6960]

you've described every bit of the appeal to me in the best way i find snufkin so interesting because of how we share so many morals. he is basically the person ive always wanted to be deep down and moominvalley is an accepting place for him. moominvalley always felt like its own little tale and though im only on episode 75 of the 90's version, i feel really close with it already. i love moomins and i cant wait for part 2

[@megasocky]

I remember one of the tove documentaries, one of the guys said "snufkin is the person we wanted to be as children, but one day i woke up and became a moominpapa"

[@icecreamwasabi]

Leafyyay I relate a lot to Snorkmaiden, not for her girlish charm & her constant nagging for Moomin’s attention. But the fact that she is pretty much strong all on her own, the fact that she can appreciate her self worth, that she can be sassy & have an attitude like any other girl, & that she isn’t afraid to be herself. Not to mention she is really pretty too, I even wear an anklet too except on the other leg.

[@ciel2815]

@@megasocky ...ouch???

[@ciel2815]

@@icecreamwasabi I love her for that too!! I always felt like she was strong and really smart, only that people usually didn't notice it. I see myself in her a lot

[@user-pl4yq1oc1y]

where do you watch it? loved watching and reading it as a kid but idk where to find it now 😅

[@miikaniemitalo5551]

im 43 year old Finnish man and i STILL watch moomins .......:D i loved them when i was kid.....and i love them now.

[@kelldilv]

Before I was familiar with Moomins, I kept seeing everyone refer to Jansson as a lesbian, but lo and behold she was bi. Typical erasure. Great vid btw. It goes over the history of this series and Tove Jansson well.

[@DrBitchcraft.]

Most of us finns try to educate people that: 1. She is finnish (swedish speaking finnish minority but still finnish) 2. She was bi, not a lesbian. 3. Moomins are trolls, not hippos.

[@javaplum8364]

fight agaisnt bi erasure!!

[@TahtahmesDiary]

People ask why it matters but then I wonder why it's constantly erased from celebrities and people demand everyone "pick a side"? 🤔 I won't stop fighting it 💜

[@Guciom]

@@TahtahmesDiary Because it's viewed by lesbians and gays as a safe way out. Not fully commiting to "there side".

[@tomkatt8274]

@@DrBitchcraft. sos she was everything people hated in Finland at the time.

[@merkurio4132]

I met the Moomins because of Declan Mckenna, one of the artists from the Moominvalley soundtrack, and I fell in love with the series immediately. Snufkin is my fav character because his personality is much close to mine and he plays a harmonica just like me! I've watched the whole 90s series twice and I need more, I'm obsessed!

[@tahdenlento3607]

I used to watch from tv when I was little

[@moonmoth17]

thats how i found out about it too! i love declan

[@sweesbees]

when the boy showed up i wanted to cry with laughter

[@annelivalkama7451]

I was born into a Finnish family and growing up here in Australia, I always loved the Moomins which felt like a fictional plane ticket to Finland. When I learnt that Tove was bi, it surprised that an author who I hold in high regard was the same sex orientation I felt a great connection. I love the Moomins!

[@ThylineTheGay]

Not Finnish but Australian, i loved the series as a child, it's very nostalgic

[@TTTups]

when my parents were little they would go to see moomins at the cinema every sunday and it made them hate the show, even be scared of the moomins, so i never really watched it as a kid myself. when the pandemic started and i was in quarantine, i started watching the moomins and fell in love, i'm so glad i watched it. every morning just before online classesi would watch an episode or two while eating breakfast and it really made my days.

[@PenguinExplosion89]

I know its only been 18 hours, buttt... I need part 2, like now. I love your videos, this is one of your best ones yet!!!!!!

[@Mareliini]

Finland didn't gain independence during ww2, it happened 1917 just a tad before soviet union formed. We did fight against soviet union (not russian empire, that was long gone by then) twice during ww2 but it was more about preserving the independence and later trying and failing to acquire more land with a boost of misguided patrionism (personal opinion more so than a fact).

[@ThomasVanhala]

Yes indeed, Finland had a bit of a rocky start after the independence like the red and white war in 1918 (Finnish civil war). The Russian empire was not that long gone, Carl Mannerheim did serve in the Russian army in the first world war.

[@matiasluukkanen7718]

You mean, Finland was trying to acquire the 10% of the land that the Soviet Union stole during the Winter War. Plus they were preparing for another attack anyway as Stalin did not like one bit being humiliated by a small nation. Having no allies at the time, Finland had to make deal with the devil against another devil. Misguided patriotism had very little to do with the dark political reality of the time.

[@odkres]

​@@matiasluukkanen7718 No need to whitewash the history. There totally was misguided patriotism and the idea of Greater Finland went a lot further than just "the land the Soviets stole in the Winter War." Eastern Karelia and Petrozavodsk was never a part of Finland but still occupied in the Continuation War. But also it's correct the dark political reality and the alignment of the Western Allies with Soviet Union meant Finland really was in an impossible situation and partly lead to a deal with the devil.

[@Silveirias]

@@odkres While there definitely was some misguided patriotism and ideas of a Greater Finland, it's laughable to argue this would have been some widely held idea among the general population. It is not untrue to say that Finland was trying to get back the territories that were stolen. Personally, I do not morally agree with the occupation of Petrozavodsk and East Karelia, but the Greater Finland ideal is not the only reason for it: it also made tactical sense to have a shorter front line to defend and to have something to bargain with (didn't end up working as a bargaining chip of course, but it's not a bad idea tactically).

[@sitron7224]

I think the moomin rennaisance can be explained by two things: firstly, the moomins were created as a reaction to the horrors of the second world war, as escapism for Jansson. She made this kind and polite family living in a welcoming, accepting valley as a contrast to what she had witnessed and experienced the past years, to cope with the grief she was dealing with. As we now are in a very uncertain time politically, where the world seems more and more dangerous, and hateful ideologies are gaining traction, just as they did in the 1930's and 40's, we as an audience have been searching for the same kind of comfort that Jansson was, and rediscovered the moomins. Secondly, as the queer rights movement has been put more in the light in recent years, a door has opened to look at this media with a different lens, and a queer reading of the series is more widely accepted, giving us a new angle to look at the story from. (but as a queer scandinavian: yeah duh, there's a reason moomin media Hit Different(TM)) in conclusion: the current state of the world has made the moomins very relevant again, thanks for coming to my TedTalk

[@mackenzieolver1035]

(A lovely Ted talk I must say) I love how we as humans are able to relate our experiences with those of others, and I totally agree, Janossen certainly built a legacy with The Moomins that fits with what’s happening in our current world. It’s fun to think about how what was happening in her life (with her romantic partners, the WAR, etc.) influenced her works, and I think you’ve written that out very eloquently! Sorry for the run-on, but your comment made me smile and I felt it necessary to reply to let you know that.

[@ThylineTheGay]

definitely this.

[@Guciom]

So basically the LGBT's are looking for another cartoon to push there fanfiction on it?

[@ThylineTheGay]

@@Guciom ...What??? if you didn't watch the video then it clearly states that she was bi

[@sitron7224]

@@Guciom that's not even close to what I said and also do you know what fanfiction is?

[@DeathsinkTV]

It is quite interesting to see an "outsider's" perspective on something you personally grew up with. And since Moomins were part of our childhood I always assumed they were well know all around the world but seemingly America is only now catching up.

[@zackbuildit88]

I only heard about them last week, but I’m trying to get involved cuz it looks so cool

[@cameronwilsonfan]

only found out about moomin stuff vaguely a year ago! wish i knew earlier!!

[@patrik9328]

I love Moomins Also Groke was my greatest childhood fear and she will haunt me forever

[@Ayelet.M]

Same!! The music was always soooooo unsettling!

[@patrik9328]

@@Ayelet.M yes

[@kreetuska8645]

Same but shes my favorite some reason Xd

[@patrik9328]

KreeTUSKA i think why

[@kreetuska8645]

@@patrik9328 I've had nightmares about gorke but I still liked them even tho they were little scary and gave me Anxiety...

[@nemuxo]

wow my recommendations r late but YES, as a finn & tove jansson enthusiast, I think this video is amazingly detailed and deserves much love!

[@HenryKathman]

Better late than never

[@bloom4563]

I laughed so hard when snufkin was introduced and the clapping started, it's 100% relatable XD

[@bigbernard7325]

Looking forward to this video! I've heard about Moomin before and I always wanted to watch it, but never got around to it. I'll do that once I'm finished with this video!

[@IAmEvilTree]

Amazing guide to Moomins, I remember watching the odd episode of the 90's series and the recent CGI one has rekindled my interest. I really apreciated all the time and effort you put into this. That part with Tove and Vivica represented by Thingumy and Bob, what the Kings Ruby signifies and how the Hobgoblin refused to take it seeing how much joy it gave them made me teary. That is simply beautiful.

[@TheJoeyKnoxville]

I grew up with the moomins and what the books taught me as a kid, is that it's okay to be lonely and feel melancholic once in a while as long you come back to where you can feel happy.

[@jumpkicking]

It is quite simply... charming. The phenomenon is nothing more than discovery via the internet. It's not localized entirely to Moomins and random stuff that was obscure or old and niche can boom from one context to another. Every single thing and person has a wiki page, and everything is documented and uploaded, so it's not hard for stuff to suddenly be found, seemingly from thin air. They are charming, fun, and they resonate well. We see this with a lot of stuff.

[@nikosuokko8370]

This is so god damn well done, like one of the best youtube documentaries that I have ever seen. The editing, your voice, and the way how you drag the viewers through the story. This is excellent work and it's better done then the documentaries that have 1 million views. As a Finn who grew up with these stories, you told a lot that I even didn't know. Moomin is a really dear story for Nordic people, especially Swedes and Finns and showing this to any of those nationalities sparks great interest. Most of us have watched the 90's anime here, like I mean everyone who is 30 and below has seen this series in their childhood so the moomins are actually really close to all of our hearts. It feels like someone made a gem out of your personal childhood experiences and I'm so happy!! I gotta share this with my friends!

[@HenryKathman]

I'm so glad my work could bring so much joy to you!

[@nom3nnescio]

*45 and below

[@LuckySketches]

Glad there's an explanation video. I just started seeing a fisherman in a funny hat hanging out with a miniature hippopotamus and had no idea what's going on.

[@crownclowncreations]

As a Dane, I grew up watching the Moomins or “Mummitroldene” as we called them. Specifically the 1990’s TV series, and I always remember it as being so incredibly animated compared to other cartoons at the time (found out it was animated by a Japanese studio which makes so much sense!) It has made me so happy to see it resurfacing and getting all this love. It truly deserves it!

[@trollkienofficial1225]

I'm Hungarian, and despite Moomins were well known in my country, it wasn't really the part of my childhood. I just kinda knew it excisted, maybe watched a couple of episodes, idk. But at the past couple of months, I was feeling very bad and I was desperatly seeking for some escape from reality. Then I thought, "Hey, there is this Moomin thing, let's check it out!" I watched the 90's and 2019's version, and gotta say: I fell in love. And I need those books. Like now.

[@Splat654]

here in Russia, i know that moomins were a big thing always as well, as mostly everywhere in europe. My bestie were telling me to watch them since the middleschool i think. But i only got to see them now when i am 21. And i am greatefull as the time couldnt be the best for it. I see deep meaning in every episode i watch of the 90th version. It fills me with warm and piece. I grew up on One Piece so seing japanese 90th visuals is the final tough for me. Just mmm it s so delicious. I only starting to dig into researching what moomins are but i had a strong will to go and write a book while watching this essay. Great video and thank you very much for making it!

[@papachrist200]

Best character design Long lanky guy with a goofy hat

[@13.7BYITM]

*Hell Yea*

[@LivingEncyclopedia]

As an American, I'm ashamed to say my first time learning about the Moomins was from Hetalia back in 2011. I was researching the Finland character and his bio talks about how much he loves the Moomins. I did a little bit of research back then and had a positive impression of the show, but never really got around to watching it. When the new series came out, I remembered that and ended up getting invested.

[@camerongillie8252]

when you are waiting for Snufkin and he gets the perfect entrance

[@vilzupuupaa4680]

Moomins were my childhood. Every kid in Finland saw the cartoons and loved them beyond belief.

[@electrofonickitty823]

I found the show when I started to work at IKEA. I want a stuffed Moomin and also the show.

[@vikramchakraborty1024]

Bruh ive been in this fandom literally my entire life. R.I.P Grandpa.

[@vikramchakraborty1024]

Btw the swedish pronounciations are... yeah

[@tuntematonohikulkija2843]

This new moomin renaissance made me realize my childhood continues as a teenager

[@upsettispaghetti1711]

I remembered Moomins from when I was around five. One day I saw them again and I was like, “This was real?” Then continued to get extremely happy while I watched the episodes I could find.

[@mangost1641]

I loved that review so much, it help me understand a part of what made this show i love so much, and to be honest i think that the fact the moomins are so open and so warm and acceptive made me so obssesed with this show, watching, reading or listening to moomin related songs gives me so much joy and comfort, something that sometimes i'm lacking lol and i think that is the magic of the moomins, that feeling of happiness, comfort, warmness or hope that reminds of childhood and leave us utterly pleased and excited for feeling it again. anyways sorry for the long rant, but i really loved your video and the effort and appreciation that you put in it, thank you!!!!!

[@jemhams]

Don't mind me just casually watching this video while sleeping in my moomin sheets, drying my hands on a moomin towel and drinking coffee from a moomin mug. It's honestly so interesting to hear an outside analysis of something I have been surrounded with all 25 years of my life but never really thought much about.

[@annarasmus8737]

As a finnswede myself, growing up with Toves works I absolutely loved this!!! 💞🇫🇮

[@Jukettaja]

This is really well researched. I'm impressed. Growing up with the show I hadn't realised so many of the stories were such authentic adaptations of the books. I also appreciate you using the music from the show. It's incredibly nostalgic.

[@wkejnwelfvnwklnv]

Loved your presentation! I just discovered the Moomins a week ago and it's my new obsession. I just can't believe I haven't found this beautiful animation series that goes to one's heart up until now! ❤

[@blackfang3000]

The best psychological work for every man to read was written by a woman. "Moominpappa at Sea"

[@debutant1277]

I know this comment may be lost in the sea of comments but I felt compelled to write these few lines. I first watched the 90s Moomins in Sarajevo in the beginning of the second millennium, it was frankly a breath of fresh air in the stuffy post Yugoslav war. I was brought up in a quite poor family with immigrant background from Kosovo where war had just begun when war in Bosnia-Herzegovina subsided. So we sought refuge in Sarajevo, Bosnia's capital. Well it was a crazy atmosphere I can assure you but as I said we had some moments of joy, one of them was to curl up infront of our old Telefunken Braun television and watched the moomins... it was one of the rare shows dubbed in the Bosnian language so it was truly a bridge to another land where not only the children but the adults could escape to. I remember the cold winters where we had to curl up all together to keep ourselves warm and put on FTV channel and all watch it together. Simple, yet blissful times filled with sadness and hope. Now, my family has migrated to France since my father was a defector of the army and couldn't return anywhere, and in Bosnia we weren't welcome anymore. We fare pretty well now, I have become an aeronautical engineer thanks to Snork ! But still I often dream of The Moomins and I still wish to live a simple life as them... My wish is to later become a writer and illustrator for children like Tove Jansson so I can fill them with dreams like I was...

[@HenryKathman]

Rest assured, I still like to wade into the sea of comment for stuff like this. Thank you for sharing this story. I think there is much to be said about the type of presence Moomin has had in the more unstable regions of Europe, though I am not qualified to speak to that in greater depth. I am glad to hear you are doing better and that this show could offer such comfort and inspiration, but my heart goes out to everyone who is still fighting the good fight in that part of the world. Thanks for reaching out! Best Wishes.

[@princkleminckle1159]

Snork- i sleep Snorkmaiden- i sleep "along side.." Snufkin- *woke*

[@julesroy3469]

the fact that the inspiration for snufkin was someone Tove (most likely) loved translates into a character who is also most likely to be loved

[@tobias5373]

i had an audio book of the moomins when i was a child, and it was one of the firsts so that meant there was only moomin, moominmama and, i believe, sniff (in the book he is only referred to as a small fox like animal, and never got a name, but the personality and description are good enough) i didnt know there were more books, or even a whole series. discovering it now has really helped me cope with things going on. It calms me down and the characters remind me of my childhood and i gotta admit it really helps. I dont know why im writing this, but im really thankful for the series and for your research and this video. thank you. edit: just found out the audio book is actually the great flood, glad to be considered one of the OGs

[@lpsfran188]

I first found this franchise from videos I saw of the new 2019 show. I watched the first season and absolutely fell in love with it. Since then I have been in a complete rabbit hole of moomin content and I doubt I’m getting out of it anytime soon.🤣 (I also may or may not have seen a bunch of adorable art of the marshmallow hippo and the criminal, pinecone creature on social media, but y’know. Details, details..🙃)

[@ciel2815]

ah, my favorite characters: Marshmallow and cat criminal (j/ lh/)

[@malvajansson7503]

This is literally my childhood i am half Swedish and half Finnish so i kinda grew up with the momins. Im happy to see that people like it❤️

[@amberk2168]

Tove was such a talented person and apparently had a wonderful personality. I highly recommend reading her biography to any artistic person(or anyone really) for it is very inspiring and gives more depth to her works. Thank you for this series, it's great. Moomin stories always were a special part of my childhood and still very dear to me yet I never really got into other moomin-related media. It was interesting to learn more about plays and shows

[@yem3321]

I’m 16 and have grown up with the Moomins, when I first joined the internet, I am happy to see this series gets its own love. It is beautiful and just something peaceful, everybody needs it in their lives.

[@therealfinnaspring8585]

I've been just watching moomin clips for a few years and occasionally reading the wiki for the past few years. It's really fascinating and charming i want to start buying the books

[@dolphincrescent54]

I remember my first introduction to the Moomins by finding a paperback copy of "Comet in Moominland" in the preteen section at my local Barnes and Noble in 2010. I was intrigued by the adorable characters on the cover and read it. I was immediately hooked and I've never stopped! I even have a Moomintroll plush doll! I can't wait to share this with my 3 year old niece!

[@amirmovsho6317]

as a child i used to watch a lot of the moomins, i even asked my mom to let me learn the harmonica because of snufkin, im glad the US have finally discovered this special show

[@sharcblazer99]

I had never even heard of this show, but started seeing it in my feed like last week and was very intetested.

[@zipertatou]

This series of 3 videos are the quintessence of Moomins Renaissance ! Thank you , it was brilliant !

[@andriasnolsoejacobsen3513]

I got to know one of the voice actors for my countries version of the original cartoon. Just being around her was nostalgic, because it was obvious she had used her natural voice.

[@casir.7407]

this was such a great video!!! the editing, the music, how the info was organized and presented... a beautifully done video essay. ive been trying to find a way to get into the moomin craze (so far ive only seen the movie "moomins and the winter wonderland", and loved it) and this feels like such a great place to begin! also, thanks for sharing the link to the series episodes, that surely will be an interesting watch. im not super knowledgeable on him either but something about the art style and backgrounds remind me of theodor "dr seuss" geisel. it immediately makes me think of afternoons spent in the elementary school library, and indeed has a very strong nostalgic factor. im looking forward to the next videos on the series! they cant come soon enough!! (also how dare you compare snufkin and wirt with that abomination)

[@HenryKathman]

Search your feelings... You know it to be true... But in all seriousness, I hope you enjoy the series as much as I have!

[@pietarimajuri9753]

I'm from Finland, and the 1990-1992 animated series was my main cartoon in my childhood. Later I got into the comics. The music in this video gives such nostalgia shivers. It's great the Moomins are finally gaining some popularity overseas!

[@raekog]

I am very glad to have found this video and to be the 1K like! I enjoyed every second of this and I will now keep on watching the other parts! Thank you for making it

[@merel101]

when I was younger I always watched the older show. Now my younger brother watches the newer ones, time flies by fast

[@greenguerrilla]

Aatos, who was the inspiration to Snufkin, his name means "a thought". It's a fairly common name in Finland.

[@Nyx_Room]

I grew up watching the Moomins and I can say without a doubt... That this show instilled a curious mind and empathy towards the world and people in my life... there's something peaceful about having diversity and embracing it... Similar to maya angelou's quote such as "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." And "When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time." Or a quote friend is someone who gives you total freedom to be yourself-and especially to feel, or not feel..." These quotes make more sense the older I get... As the show always allowed the characters to be who they were without being subdued to become something they aren't... The ambience of the show also had been clouded with mystery. Magical.💙

[@ABMODEUS]

I’m American, and the moment I saw Moomintroll for the first time around 4 years ago, I was fascinated. I love these little creatures, and their happy little valley. I’m so very glad I was introduced to Moomin, but I wish it was sooner!

[@HenryKathman]

In case some people didn't know, here is a link to part 2! kzbin.info/www/bejne/e5TMnKJ-iMtlY5o

[@matthewlaurence3121]

5:30 "racist pseudo-scientist" Sorry Harry, Kant was not a scientist but a logician and philosopher, you are confusing him for some of his contemporaries. You need to expand your expertise into other fields before casting such judgement. Kant looms as large in the minds of many around the world as America's Founding Fathers for citizens of said country. Your incite is impeccable excluding this offhanded remark on Kant, in an otherwise impactful video series.

[@nicolasborba5281]

Heyy, I'm not sure if you're going to answer me, but could you please share the names of the music you used in this video? I really like to listen to them, but I really need to know where they come from, are they from Moomin specific media as well??(sorry im not familiar with this series)

[@penelopegreene]

The panther may have inspired the wizard's plane traveling "shadowcat" in Trampier's "Wormy" comic strip.

[@JasminTheDreamer]

What a beautiful. heartfelt analysis. I can imagine how much love and work you put into this. I'll gladly watch the other parts now.

[@ThomasVanhala]

I am half Swedish and Finnish and I grow up with Moomin and this is a very nice guide.

[@goldeeswagga]

so good. genuinely didn't think it was possible for me to learn anymore about moomins/tove jansson but here we are!! "amateur's guide" is misleading, this is 100% the most definitive exploration of the world i have ever seen

[@Constantin9va]

Omg the end made me cry! Idk how this popped up for me, but I am thankful to the algorithm that did it!

[@ravioli2020]

My dad traveled a lot for work when I was little. He brought me back Moonin books when he went to Finland and I was immediately in love. 20+ years later, they still bring me so much joy. Often times I run in to other Americans who grew up with Moomin and it's an immediate bond

[@BottoBobbs]

I'm from the U.S., but I distinctly remember my mom (who is also American, but lived in Europe) showing me episodes of the 90s Moomintroll show. The funny thing is that even as a child, I absolutely loved Snufkin.

[@mirandar.cortez2889]

I can't wait for part two! Thank you for making this

[@luanaudio]

I had a translated Moomin book in Brazil growing up and these illustrations bring cherished memories. ♥️

[@YunierViada]

I am from Cuba and I grew up being familiar with the books. I am so happy is finally popular here now ❤️❤️❤️

[@johannanikola-doyle4540]

this was a fantastic review. i appreciate that you were able to really dig deep into the meaning of moomin without overly intellectualizing it.

[@ZataMachi]

The Moomin world seems so cozy and lived-in, like we're just watch any random day in the life of the characters. 🙂 Even though it's all fantasy and everything always ends well, you can sense that the Moomin world is unforgiving. It makes certain themes or scenes actually feel very serious. At least the 90s anime I grew up watching touch on topics and feelings the viewer will understand without being spoon-fed. I think most people appreciate that. Also, the show is full of that Scandinavian melancholy and mindset of simple living, taking its time. I believe the young growing up now are more aware of psyche, mood and are very down to earth, and maybe therefore find Moomins so interesting. I'm happy that more people can experience it ❤

[@jojoschauman6055]

I love the croak she is my favorite, my parents gave me a plushy of her as an infant, cuz her Swedish name directly translates to "the growler" and I used to growl when I was hungry, I was never scared of her

[@Fortzon]

Congrats, you're one of the few kids who didn't get traumatized by Mörkö/Mårran 😁

[@spudtree]

So its whinnie the pooh but with good lore

[@MyGeniusFriend]

A pretty good comparison actually -- I was a *big* fan of both Winnie-the-Pooh and the Moomins as a kid myself BTW :D

[@nofoundfootage]

When I was in elementary school, I was placed in an advanced class where we would read different stories. These stories ranged from sci-fi stories to slice of life moments to the civil rights movement. One of the stories we read was “The Invisible Child”, which was a Moomin story. It wasn’t something super complicated or impactful, it was just a simple, sad story that told me that feeling invisible was a real problem, but there will always be people who see you. I think about that story probably once a month, because somehow, it just stuck with me. I loved how the characters said “Hullo”, I loved the cute character designs, and I loved how kind everyone was. Everyone just cared so much about each other, it was so pleasant. Because of that class, I fell into the Moomin world, and it’s something that I hope will always stick around. It’s a lot of fun and I love it. Thank you for this video, it helps me learn so much more about what I’m missing.

[@mallbratgirl_3005]

my dad read me the moomin books and comics when i was little. there's just something so absolutely soothing and comforting about it. also moomins on the riviera the animated film is so underrated. the animation is so gorgeous and true to the original art style, the story is so true to the comics with so many easter eggs. probably every character, even ones in the background for 2 seconds, you can find in the comics.

[@vasaraahven3019]

Actually name Hobgoblin seems to be translation error as Swedish term Trollkarlen means either Magician or Wizard depending on situation. Swedish word troll can be translated to either troll or goblin in English so I bet person who did translation thought that "Oh, so there are Moomintrolls and Trollkarlen, this must also be some sort of troll but better call it a goblin instead." In Finland Hobgoblin is Taikuri which means Magician but yeah, this translation error is just my theory but it could explain this weird English naming.

[@hillaryl4177]

I live in America and just found out what Moominvalley was a week ago and absolutely love it

[@baller815]

Moomintrolls has been and still is my childhood cause my dad always read it to me. i watched the 90 and other versions i have always loved it and still do, so if you haven't watched it watch it

[@Ed_Lothia]

In sweden moomin is soo loved and is far more than just childrens literature and pop culture. Moomin merch, especially mugs are seen as collectibles and can be sold for hundreds of dollars. It's basically how you tell if someone is an artist or likes culture, their cabinets are always filled with moomin mugs (yes, so are mine). Jansson is a very respected artist here!

[@sherangles]

im a finnish person who grew up with moomin, and my interest in them is coming back, so its lovely to see these types of videos!!

[@esme_darling231]

It's odd to see a fandom for a show I've been watching my whole life (I'm Finnish) Moomin is a big part of our life and culture and it's really fun to see it get more attention ☺️☺️

[@sele6138]

I never really realised how popular Moomins are. I know they're big deal in Sweden and here in Finland, and I've heard that people like them in Japan, too. I'm just now discovering the fandom, it's pretty cool to see other people discover something I grew up with

[@StudioFirstFloor]

Happy I was a kid in the Netherlands growing up. Moomins was on tv ALWAYS and I've found my way to the books. Well my parents. But a good addition to my childhood

[@lhaviland8602]

I discovered the Moomins as a child in the US about 10 years ago at a book sale, it was extremely difficult to find more of the content here so I'm very glad it has taken off recently.

[@imthecoolestguyalive]

Funny thing, a few of my relatives, particularly Mother and her friends, would sometimes call strange unfamiliar cartoony creatures, like Pokémon, "Snusmumrik", y'know, Snufkin. Funny how one of the more humanoid characters in the stories is mentioned, when talking about more outlandish creatures. I even kind of picked up that habit myself.

[@snape_head]

The Moomins have always been a big part of my life ever since I was a little kid, and I love to see how people all around the world love them. Now that I'm older, I've started to admire The Moomins even more. The character designs, the stories and the music are amazing. I still watch the show and read the books to this day because of the nostalgia and the simple fact that I love The Moomins. 💛^^

[@haiijinks3569]

This is so incredible????? I am sitting on the edge of my seat for part two. Keep up the good work!!!