In film production, the right choice of gear plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth operations – especially during outdoor shoots where weather conditions can be extremely challenging. Ruskovilla’s merino wool garments have proven their value on the sets of numerous TV series and films.
Warmth enhances the workplace comfort
MINNA HAAPKYLÄ is an actress and the Head of Scripted Content at Rabbit Films, overseeing all the company’s drama productions. For her, it’s essential to create a safe and comfortable environment for everyone on set.
“Ruskovilla products have been a part of several of our productions, such as the winter 2024 outdoor shoots for the films Uhma and Valitut and, later in the year, for the TV series Queen of Fucking Everything and Munkkivuori. Without Ruskovilla’s garments, the crew and actors would have frozen during long, cold, rainy, and windy days,” Minna explains.
Minna Haapkylä enjoys the warmth of a wool fleece hoodie during a filming break.
Ruskovilla’s merino wool garments kept the Valitut film crew warm during the freezing winter of 2024 in Kolari. Set in the 1930s Tornionjokilaakso region, this historical drama tells the true story of one of Finland’s most notable religious movements, the Korpela sect. The film premieres on March 31, 2025.
Versatile warmth
The softness and adaptability of the garments are critical, especially when thermal layers must remain invisible in front of the camera. “Ruskovilla’s base layers are a dream for us. The products feel wonderfully soft and don’t itch. They fit seamlessly under any role costumes. These garments also work exceptionally well for the rest of the crew, allowing them to move efficiently and perform the demanding tasks required during film shoots,” she adds.
The comfort of the clothing extends beyond outdoor scenes. “Everyone wanted to wear Ruskovilla base layers all the time. When we came indoors to eat or shoot, we basically had a ‘base layer party,’ with everyone wandering around in their Ruskovilla outfits,” Minna recalls fondly.
Costume designer Maria Sirén has been involved in several Rabbit Films productions. Ruskovilla’s trusted products were used during the filming of the Uhma movie and the Munkkivuori series.
Merino wool as the secret to comfort on set
MARIA SIRÉN, a Helsinki-based freelance costume and textile designer, has worked in various film productions, theatre, dance, and opera.
Maria was already familiar with Ruskovilla’s products, having used long base layers, tube scarves, collars, and shorts in earlier projects. For the upcoming February 2025 release of Uhma, Maria selected Ruskovilla’s merino wool base layers to combat the freezing temperatures of early spring. “They kept our entire cast warm and in good spirits. Many actors breathe a sigh of relief when they hear we have Ruskovilla’s merino wool thermal layers for them,” she says.
Maria emphasizes the importance of warm clothing during long days with extended periods of waiting. Comfortable base layers improve endurance in the cold and damp weather, enabling both safe and efficient work in front of and behind the camera. “Film production is very physical, and it’s essential to keep muscles warm. If the body gets too cold, the risk of injury increases, and mental focus can suffer,” she explains.
The Uhma film shoot in early 2024 also relied on merino wool base layers, allowing the crew to work efficiently in demanding conditions. The film premieres on February 28, 2025.
Everyday luxury
Warm base layers also provide a psychological boost. “Though thermal clothing may seem like a small detail in the grand machinery of film production, it has a significant impact. Starting a cold winter shoot wrapped in soft, high-quality garments sets the tone for a smoother day, improving the overall workflow. It’s wonderful to offer this little piece of everyday luxury,” Maria notes.
A particularly memorable moment occurred on Uhma’s last day of filming. “We had been standing in sleet all day shooting outdoor scenes. At the end of the day, when it was time to change out of the wet costumes, no one wanted to take off their warm base layers. Laughing, we packed up our gear to music, all wearing Ruskovilla base layers. It was such a funny and surreal sight that we couldn’t stop laughing,” she recalls.
Set designer Antti Nikkinen values natural fibers and Finnish craftsmanship. Merino wool has proven to be an unparalleled material for working in cold weather.
Wool fleece – a true comfort garment
ANTTI NIKKINEN, a set designer responsible for creating the visual environments of films, also experienced the warmth of merino wool during winter shoots. Already familiar with Ruskovilla’s base layers, he highlights their breathability as a major advantage.
“I’ve tried technical base layers before, but they often feel cold against the skin at some point. Our work involves a mix of running around, adjusting things, and standing still, so merino wool is an excellent material because it maintains its warmth,” he explains.
Antti’s favorite item was the wool fleece, which he praises highly. “When we got to choose Ruskovilla garments for ourselves, I specifically wanted the wool fleece hoodie. It’s absolutely perfect – incredibly lightweight and always warm, no matter how cold or damp it gets outside. It’s practically become my comfort garment,” he says. He also values Ruskovilla’s merino wool fingerless gloves, which allow for precise work even in cold weather.
More than just clothing
For Rabbit Films, sustainability and Finnish craftsmanship are significant values. The company prioritises eco-friendly and responsible practices in all its collaborations and productions, making this partnership feel like a natural fit due to shared values.
At Ruskovilla, we’re delighted to hear that our products continue to warm film crews on both sides of the camera. Between productions, the garments are carefully cleaned and stored to ensure their longevity.
Though base layers and wool fleeces may not make it onto the silver screen, it’s rewarding to know they’re an integral part of the wellbeing and safety of the entire crew. By offering warmth, comfort, and a touch of luxury, they contribute to a more pleasant working experience in all weather conditions.
