Polymath House Productions creates bold, independent cinematic experiences. Dedicated to telling never-before-seen stories, we embrace the weird and peculiar, finding humour in the absurdities of real-life situations. Our narratives delve into unconventional group dynamics and offer perspectives that champion the outsider.
Founded by interdisciplinary artist Darren McStay, the company is a collaboration of professional artists and entrepreneurs united by a passion for narrative storytelling.
Our first two short films received multiple awards on the international festival circuit, and the company’s debut feature film, To Thy Rest, has been acquired by Hollywood sales agency DuBow Media Distribution and is set for release 21. 2. 2025.
With a slate of films already in development, Polymath House Productions is committed to supporting and championing the true essence of independent cinema. In an era where funding for the creative arts has been drastically cut, we fight for cinema worth watching. Our character-driven stories are poised to reach international audiences in the coming years.
Bold indie films. Darkly comedic. Peculiar yet human!
MEET THE TEAM
Darren McStay
DIRECTOR/PRODUCER
Darren McStay, originally from London, UK, now resides in Helsinki, Finland, where he runs Polymath House Productions. He creates educational and fictional content, which has earned him over twelve million views and a 300,000 subscribers to his YouTube channel, Improve Your Voice.
In addition to an MA in Acting, McStay completed training at Prague Film School, where he won the Audience Award for Best Film. His first two short films, Pop and Cupid's Arrow, have gathered numerous awards on the international festival circuit.
In 2023, Darren collaborated with Writer Henry Valo to produce and directed his first feature-length film, To Thy Rest, which has its theatrical release in Finland 21.2.2025.
Monika Lindeman
CO-PRODUCER
Monika Lindeman is an actor and producer with extensive experience in Nordic film and television. Best known for her role as crime detective Linda Eerikäinen in Secret Lives (Fremantle Finland), she has appeared in over 800 episodes.
Alongside her acting career, Monika has expanded into producing, bringing her industry expertise to Polymath House Productions. She co-produced To Thy Rest and has furthered her skills through additional studies in audiovisual production in Helsinki.
Mya Rydman
HEAD OF ART DIRECTION
Mya's ability to affect an audience through her knowledge of style and design is intelligent, effective and quite simply beautiful.
As Head of Art direction, Mya manages the Art & Production design teams to ensure the style, tone and visual aesthetic meet congruously for the most crucial facet of filmmaking... the story.
Mya currently holds an impressive role as Senior Art Director at The LEGO Group and works with the Global Brand Marketing.
As well as LEGO, Mya's client portfolio includes other global and local clients, including Finnair, OPPO Mobile, The Absolut Company, Danone, Burger King and many more.
Johannes Ahonen
EDITOR / COLORIST
Johannes Ahonen is a passionate filmmaker, driven and dedicated by his motto, "It's all about the story".
Since 2018, Johannes has been the creative mind behind several thought-provoking documentaries, captivating TV commercials and other successful productions. He continues collaborating with well-known artists, brands and commercial organisations in Finland.
Though Johannes has many directing credits, his primary areas of expertise are cinematography, editing, and colour grading.
He has produced music videos, narrative films, documentaries and a host of other visually encapsulating works under his company, Mungo Films. Visit mungo.fi to learn more.
Wilma Ramona Ikäheimonen
COSTUME DESIGN
Wilma Ramona is a Finnish, LGBTQ+ artist specialising in costume design, visual development and make up artistry.
She's been a costume designer since 2016 when she won her first costume competition. She's created costumes for many competitions and worked on multiple project including feature films, short films and music videos.
Currently working on her degree, Bachelor of Culture and Arts, Game Design, she has completed courses on, for example, costume design, visual development and visual storytelling.