Writer-director Joachim Trier presents a compelling story via an prologue, 12 chapters and an epilogue in The Worst Person in the World. The unusual treatment of the narrative by Trier and co-writer Eskil Vogt works nicely. The film follows beautiful and buoyant Julie (Renate Reinsve). She was a decent and friendly person who could be…
Following Nordic tradition, Lamb is a mystery that becomes more and more compelling the longer it goes. It’s a slow-moving, supernatural drama that only comes into its own after an incident more than a quarter of an hour in. Maria (Noomi Rapace) and Ingvar (Hilmir Snaer Gudnason) are a hardworking, childless farming couple in remote,…
The Norwegian comedy Diana’s Wedding really puts family values to the test. This small film offers some hard truths, wrapped in that peculiarly Scandinavian sense of humour. Director Charlotte Blom doubles as the screenwriter. She brings a sharply observational style to what is essentially a kitchen-sink dramedy, but doesn’t seek to inject any great flair…
Traditional cultural beliefs clash with modernity in the searing Norwegian drama What Will People Say (Hva Vil Folk Si). Writer and director Iram Haq’s evocative semi-autobiographical work clasps you tight as you desperately hope for a way out for a trapped teenager. As the film opens in Norway, Nisha (Maria Mozhdah) is balancing two separate…
Intense and compelling, The King’s Choice is a historical drama is based around Norway’s entry into World War II. Inspired by a book of the same name by Alf R. Jacobsen, it concerns three dramatic days in April 1940. The King of Norway is presented with a monstrous ultimatum from Nazi Germany: surrender or die….
The fourth Volvo Scandinavian Film Festival takes off from 11 July with a slate of 20 films from the Nordic region. The program opens with Aki Kaurismäki’s The Other Side of Hope. The film won Silver Bear for Best Director at this year’s Berlinale. This important and entertaining film reflects the modern day experience of…
