Four Norwegian films—Armand, Ibelin, Kanskje det var elefanter, and No Other Land—have made significant strides toward potential Oscar nominations, as announced by Kjersti Mo, director of teh norwegian Film Institute. The films have garnered attention and acclaim, securing spots on the oscar shortlist ahead of the final nominations set for January 17, 2025. Filmmakers expressed their pride and gratitude, highlighting the collaborative efforts that brought these projects to life. The 97th Academy Awards will take place on March 2, 2025, in Los Angeles, with a rich history of norwegian films previously nominated in the Best International Feature Film category.
norwegian film “armand,” directed by Halfdan Ullmann Tøndel, has garnered significant acclaim since its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival, where it won the prestigious Caméra d’Or for best debut. The film, which explores the complexities of a parent-teacher meeting gone awry, features a talented cast including Renate Reinsve and Ellen Dorrit petersen. Supported by the Norwegian Film Institute’s Neo talent program,”Armand” has received over 8 million NOK in funding and is co-produced with several international partners. Recently, it was awarded the European Finding Fipresci prize at the European Film Awards, solidifying its status as a standout in contemporary cinema.In a captivating display of modern gaming culture, a recent image captures a young boy engrossed in his video game, showcasing the immersive nature of digital entertainment. The photograph,taken by renowned photographer Bjørg Engdahl,highlights the juxtaposition of youth and technology,as the boy’s focused gaze is directed towards the screen,embodying the passion and dedication that many young gamers exhibit today. This visual narrative not only reflects the growing influence of gaming in contemporary society but also raises questions about the impact of screen time on childhood development. As gaming continues to evolve, it remains a significant aspect of youth culture, shaping social interactions and leisure activities in unprecedented ways.The documentary “Ibelin,” directed by Benjamin Ree, explores the vibrant online life of gamer Mats Steen, who tragically passed away at just 25 due to a muscle disease. Contrary to his parents’ belief that Mats lived a lonely existence, they discovered a network of friends from around the globe who shared heartfelt messages after his death. The film intricately weaves real-life events and dialogues from the MMORPG World of Warcraft, showcasing Mats’ avatar, “Ibelin,” and the rich community he engaged with. Premiering in March 2024 in Norway and later on Netflix, “Ibelin” has garnered significant acclaim, including multiple awards at prestigious film festivals such as Sundance and the European Film Awards, and received substantial funding from the Norwegian Film Institute.The animated short film “Kanskje det var elefanter” offers a whimsical yet poignant exploration of family dynamics, set against the backdrop of the 1970s. Following the journey of three moody teenage daughters,a restless mother,and a potato-farming father,the film captures their transformative move from a predictable life in Norway to the vibrant city of Nairobi. This self-reflective narrative delves into the therapeutic power of memories, irrespective of their accuracy. With a generous development and production grant of 1.8 million NOK from the Norwegian Film Institute (NFI), the film is a collaboration between Mikrofilm, led by seasoned producers Lise Fearnley and tonje Skar Reiersen, and the National Film Board of Canada, promising a rich visual and emotional experience for audiences.The acclaimed documentary “No Other Land” has garnered attention at prestigious film festivals, including Toronto and Annecy, captivating audiences with its poignant storytelling and stunning visuals. The film explores the intricate relationship between humans and nature, set against the backdrop of breathtaking landscapes. Featuring a striking image of a man resting on a mountainside,surrounded by rugged terrain and a tractor in the distance,the film invites viewers to reflect on their connection to the land. As it continues to make waves in the film circuit, “No Other Land” stands out as a must-see for documentary enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.The documentary “No Other Land,” created by a Palestinian-Israeli collective, powerfully captures the ongoing struggle against Israel’s settlement policies that displace Palestinians in the West Bank. Directed by Basel Adra and his team, the film chronicles the experiences of a Palestinian activist and an Israeli investigative journalist as they confront the harsh realities faced by their communities. Produced by Norway’s Antipode Films, “No Other Land” has garnered significant acclaim, winning multiple awards including the Berlinale Documentary Award and the Audience Award at prestigious festivals like IDFA and Visions du Réel. This poignant film not only highlights the legacy of Palestinian activism but also serves as a vital act of creative resistance amidst the region’s turmoil [[3]](https://watch.documentary.org/falldocs/play/67070487b8f632005dc5dd43).
Editor: Welcome, everyone! Today, we have an exciting discussion lined up about the recent success of Norwegian cinema at the Oscars. I’m joined by our expert in film studies, dr. Ingrid Solberg. dr. Solberg, could you share your thoughts on the meaning of the four Norwegian films, including “Armand,” making it to the Oscar shortlist?
Dr. Solberg: Absolutely! It’s a momentous occasion not only for these films but also for Norwegian cinema as a whole. The fact that “Armand,” directed by halfdan Ullmann Tøndel, won the Caméra d’Or at Cannes is a meaningful achievement. This prestigious award showcases that Norwegian filmmakers are gaining international recognition for thier storytelling and artistic prowess. The film’s exploration of the complexities of a parent-teacher relationship realy resonates with contemporary audiences, and it’s great to see it highlighted in such a prestigious context.
Editor: It’s interesting how “Armand” has reached such accolades. The film has been supported by the Norwegian Film Institute’s Neo talent program, which emphasizes the importance of funding and support for emerging talent, right?
Dr. Solberg: Exactly! Initiatives like the Neo talent program are crucial for nurturing filmmakers early in their careers. With over 8 million NOK in funding for “Armand,” we see that investment in talent can lead to remarkable stories. this also reflects the collaborative nature of the Norwegian film industry, with multiple international co-productions contributing to a broader storytelling palette.
Editor: Speaking of collaboration, the othre films on the shortlist—“Ibelin,” “Kanskje det var elefanter,” and “No other Land”—also signify a collective movement in Norwegian cinema. What trends do you see in these films that might appeal to Oscar voters?
Dr.Solberg: There’s a rich diversity in themes and narrative styles among these films. Eco-conscious narratives, cultural introspections, and deeply personal stories are becoming prominent, which is what the Academy often appreciates. For instance, “Kanskje det var elefanter” has been noted for its innovative approach to storytelling and could resonate well with voters looking for fresh perspectives. Moreover, having a strong emotional core frequently enough works in favor of films during award season.
Editor: Let’s not forget the past context. Norway has a track record of films nominated in the Best International Feature Film category. How do you think this legacy influences the current nominees?
Dr.Solberg: That legacy is incredibly important. Past nominations, such as “The Worst Person in the World” and “Kon-Tiki,” have set a high standard for what international audiences expect from Norwegian films. It creates a kind of brand recognition—Oscar voters may be more inclined to look favorably upon films from a contry that has historically delivered compelling narratives. The momentum from previous nominations and wins can certainly work in favor of the current shortlist.
Editor: The anticipation for the final nominations in January 2025 is palpable! What advice would you give to filmmakers from Norway aiming for Oscar success?
Dr. Solberg: They should focus on authenticity in their storytelling. Emphasizing unique aspects of Norwegian culture and society, while also connecting to universal themes, is key. Also, building international collaborations can enhance their visibility. Above all, continuing to nurture and support new voices—like the ones seen in the nominated films—is essential for keeping Norwegian cinema vibrant and relevant on the global stage.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Solberg, for your insights! The future of Norwegian cinema looks bright, and we’re all eager to see how these films fare at the oscars. Let’s continue to watch and celebrate this inspiring wave of talent!