The best of Norwegian cinema –

Unlike their Scandinavian neighbors, Sweden and Denmark, Norwegian cinema has not had a towering figure like Ingmar Bergman or iconic movements like Dogma 95. That said, it has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent decades, significantly improving quality and gaining international recognition.

In this vibrant landscape, filmmakers such as Joachim Trier are making a real impact with their innovative storytelling and emotionally resonant films. Moreover, Norwegian cinema is branching out into more commercial genres and showing a creative surge that is taking its films to new heights. As a result, this vibrant variety captivates audiences around the world and firmly establishes Norway’s presence on the international film stage. In this context, we have selected what we consider to be the five best films in Norwegian cinema. Let’s dive in!

5. Max Manus (2008)

You may know Joachim Rønning and Espen Sandberg from their work on Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales, which catapulted them into making big-budget Hollywood films and earned them international recognition. However, they were making remarkable Norwegian films long before this success. One of these remarkable films is Max Manus, which tells the story of a member of the Norwegian resistance during World War II. The film focuses on his attempts to sabotage the Nazi regime and his personal struggle with the trauma of the war. With a mix of action and drama, Max Manus offers an intense look at courage and sacrifice in difficult times, making Rønning and Sandberg highly talented directors long before their breakthrough in Hollywood.

4. Kon-Tiki (2012)

Another film directed by Joachim Rønning and Espen Sandberg. Starring Norwegian actors such as Pål Sverre Hagen, along with actors from other countries, including Swedish actor Gustav Skarsgård as one of the crew (who you probably know as Floki), this epic tells of Thor Heyerdahl’s 1947 expedition, in which he crossed the Pacific Ocean on a wooden raft. The film combines adventure with the exploration of profound themes and was nominated for an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film, making it one of the most iconic works in Norwegian cinema. Interestingly, the film was shot simultaneously in Norwegian and English, with each scene filmed twice. This resulted in two versions of the film: one for the Norwegian market and one for an international audience. Except in some cases, where they used the same takes and later added English audio. I hope the actors got paid double!

3. Headhunters (2011)

Headhunters is a fantastic adaptation of a book written by Jo Nesbø. Directed by Morten Tyldum (who you may know from The Imitation Game ), this film is an exciting mix of dark comedy that introduces us to Roger Brown, a headhunter who, desperate to maintain his luxurious lifestyle, turns to art theft. His life takes a dramatic turn when he comes across a former soldier with an invaluable painting – played by Danish actor Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, whom you probably recognize as Jaime Lannister. What begins as a clever game soon degenerates into a dangerous web of deception, where nothing is what it seems. With unexpected twists and a dark humor that challenges conventions, Headhunters has become a must-see in Norwegian cinema, featuring Tyldum’s exceptional talent for devising intricate plots and memorable characters.

2. Oslo, 31. August (2011)

Joachim Trier brings us an intimate work that follows Anders, a man who, after leaving rehab, spends a day in Oslo to face his struggle with addiction. The film dives deep into his emotional emptiness and search for redemption, all told through a sensitive, contemplative narrative style. As Anders reconnects with old friends and family, the cracks in his relationships and the weight of his past are revealed. This film also marks the first collaboration between Trier and Renate Reinsve, whose performance adds a touching authenticity. Trier offers a reflection on the human condition, loneliness and hope, inviting viewers to accompany Anders on his search for meaning and purpose. The dynamic between the characters emphasizes that while the path to redemption can be lonely, human connections are essential in that journey.

1. The worst person in the world (2021)

Another one from Joachim Trier. Here we explore modern life through Julie, a young woman pursuing her relationships and searching for her identity in Oslo. This dramedy deals with themes of love, fear and self-discovery with sensitivity and a fresh tone. Renate Reinsve’s performance is downright sublime, and it’s no wonder the film resonated so well at international festivals and garnered Oscar nominations. Want to hear something fascinating? Before the film, Renate was ready to quit acting to take up carpentry. Just a day after making that decision, Joachim Trier contacted her about a new project. Using their earlier conversations as a basis, Trier developed the script for The Worst Person in the World with the intention of having her play the lead role. Talk about fate!

And that’s all for today! Unlike its Scandinavian neighbors, Norwegian cinema has no historical figure as iconic as Bergman, nor movements as well-known as Dogma 95. In recent decades, however, it has grown considerably in both quality and international presence, thanks to films, directors and actors like the one we just mentioned. Norway is steadily making its mark on the world stage, and who knows? Cinema may continue to surprise us in the years to come.

Sharing a top five is always exciting, especially with so many great choices out there. But of course, opinions vary from person to person! So, what about your favorite movies? What about other directors and actors? We can’t wait to see your picks in the comments!