Between an IKEA Fairy Tale and a von Trier Horror: The Finale of “Pukst in the North” Is Out

Reform.news Editorial Team · 28 October 2026, 13:19

https://reform.news/en/between-an-ikea-fairy-tale-and-a-von-trier-horror-the-finale-of-pukst-in-the-north-is-out/

In the final episode, Siarhei Pukst explores what lies behind the picture-perfect image of Scandinavian well-being. The fifth and final episode of Reform.news’s documentary project “Pukst in the North” has been released on the “Sasha, What Are You Talking About?!” YouTube channel.

In the 1990s, Northern Europe seemed almost like a perfect world to Pukst. The music of ABBA, A-ha and The Cardigans, Danish cottages, the Swedish social model and the cosy concept of hygge promised safety and harmony amid the chaos of post-Soviet life. But gradually, another Scandinavia emerged from behind the caramel-coloured image: one with the inner demons of Ingmar Bergman, the dark provocations of Lars von Trier, the unsettling lyrics of favourite songs and a rather peculiar sense of humour.

Pukst recalls Swedish Ambassador Stefan Eriksson, the “plush toy landing force,” encounters in Finland and cultural clashes that challenged his ideas about the North. In the end, what remains is not a flawless fairy tale but a more complex reality — one defined by directness, respect for personal boundaries and care expressed not through pretty words, but through concrete actions.

All five episodes of the project are available on the “Sasha, What Are You Talking About?!” YouTube channel.

Siarhei Pukst is the scriptwriter, narrator and musician. The project is directed by Artsiom Lobach.

The project was created by Reform.news with the support of the Nordic Council of Ministers.