Norwegian cinema’s rising star: Anders Emblem’s new project
A new voice in Nordic cinema
Anders Emblem, a promising Norwegian writer-director, has been making waves in the film industry with his unique storytelling and visual style. His previous film, A Human Position, garnered attention at prestigious festivals such as Tromsø, Rotterdam, and San Sebastian in 2022, eventually securing a global deal with Mubi. Now, Emblem is set to captivate audiences once again with his third feature, Also a Life, which will be pitched at the Nordic Co-Production Market on August 21 in Haugesund, Norway.
A collaboration of talents
The upcoming Norwegian feature is being produced by the talented Elisa Fernanda Pirir of Stær Film. Pirir, who has collaborated with award-winning international directors like Luis Alejandro Yero, Laura Mora, Nabil Ayouch, and Ernst de Geer, first discovered Emblem’s work with A Human Position. She was immediately struck by his refreshing Nordic voice and the film’s elegant, beautifully-framed drama.
Pirir expressed her admiration for Emblem, stating, “I was amazed by such a refreshing new Nordic voice; A Human Position was both moving, funny, and cleverly constructed. Since then, Anders and I have become good friends. We’re both cinephiles and cat lovers!”
Industry recognition and anticipation
Norwegian arthouse distributor Svend Jensen of Arthaus, known for his discerning taste and Cannes-winning film collection, has already pre-bought Also a Life. Jensen has been following Emblem’s career since his debut feature, Hurry Slowly, premiered in 2018 at the exclusive Nara film festival in Japan. He praised Emblem’s unique filmmaking style, noting the slow yet intense pacing and heartfelt care for the characters on screen.
Jensen shared his excitement for Emblem’s latest project, saying, ”I am very much looking forward to experiencing how he will pull off the powerful story of Also a Life.”
A story of care and compassion
Also a Life is set in a care home for children and youth with intellectual disabilities. The film follows a team of social workers in their daily routines and interactions with the residents. When a young resident reveals she is pregnant and wants to keep the baby, the head therapist Eivor, played by Amalie Ibsen Jensen, faces difficult decisions.
Emblem, who spent nearly a decade working in various care homes before turning to filmmaking, has always been fascinated by this “somehow invisible, parallel society, filled with laughter and joy, but also sadness, illness, and people in very difficult situations.” He aims to capture this world on film, offering viewers a glimpse into its unique dynamics and challenges.
A blend of fiction and reality
Emblem’s approach to Also a Life involves a mix of documentary techniques and fictional storytelling. He plans to use mostly real children and youth with intellectual disabilities, emphasizing the importance of listening to and understanding their perspectives. Amalie Ibsen Jensen, who plays the lead role, is praised for her ability to subtly convey the complexities of her character.
Emblem’s research for the film has included interviews with care home staff, government agencies, social workers, parents, and siblings to gain a comprehensive understanding of the operational routines and special situations that arise in these environments.
Looking ahead
At the Haugesund Nordic Co-production Market, producer Elisa Fernanda Pirir will be seeking co-financing and co-producers for Also a Life, with plans to start filming in 2025. Pirir’s slate of projects also includes the Sami musical Árru by debut director Elle Sofe Sara, and a series of co-productions with international filmmakers.
Emblem’s unique vision
Anders Emblem’s films are characterized by their slow pacing, intense emotional depth, and poetic storytelling. His ability to capture the beauty and complexity of everyday life has earned him a dedicated following and critical acclaim. With Also a Life, Emblem continues to explore the human condition, challenging viewers to reflect on what it means to be human and who is allowed to be.
For those interested in exploring Emblem’s previous work, you can watch the trailer for A Human Position here.
Stay tuned for more updates on Also a Life and other exciting projects from this talented filmmaker.
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