Norwegian director’s ‘Love’ expands its reach across Europe
A cinematic journey through ‘Love’
Norwegian director Dag Johan Haugerud’s latest film, Love, has been making waves since its premiere at the Venice Film Festival, where it clinched the prestigious Bisato d’Oro film critics’ prize. This poignant and thought-provoking film is now set to captivate audiences across additional European territories.
New territories for ‘Love’
The film will soon be showcased in Busan’s World Cinema strand, further broadening its international appeal. Love has secured distribution deals in several new regions, including Greece (One from the Heart), the Baltics (Best Film Baltics), Ex-Yugoslavia (MCF MegaCom), Poland (Aurora), and Hungary (Vertigo Media).
A growing global presence
Previously, Love had already found homes in North America (Strand Releasing), France (Pyramide), the U.K. and Ireland (Modern Films), Germany and Austria (Alamode), Italy (Wanted Cinema), Benelux (September Film), Spain (Filmin), the Czech Republic and Slovakia (Pilot Film), and Switzerland (Xenix Film).
A film that resonates
Lefteris Adamidis, partner and head of acquisitions at One from the Heart, expressed his enthusiasm for the film, stating, “What the world needs now is love, as Dionne Warwick sings, and we feel that indeed the world urgently needs films like Love: gentle, compassionate, and intelligent.”
Exploring unconventional relationships
Love centers on Marianne, a pragmatic doctor, and Tor, a compassionate nurse, both of whom are navigating life while avoiding conventional relationships. When Tor shares his experiences of casual encounters with men, Marianne begins to question whether this form of intimacy could be an option for her as well. This exploration of human connection and intimacy is both tender and profound.
A thematic trilogy
Love is part of a thematic trilogy by Haugerud, following his earlier film Sex, which premiered at Berlinale Panorama. Sex delves into the lives of two male friends in straight relationships who begin to question societal expectations about their sexuality. The trilogy will continue with the upcoming installment Dreams, which tells the story of a young woman who falls in love with her female teacher.
Communication at the core
Berlin-based sales agent M-Appeal is handling international rights for this trilogy. Haugerud emphasizes the importance of communication in his films, stating, “We should talk more about physical attraction and all these sensations. Once you start having these conversations, it’s already a good start. Communication is a big theme in all these three movies. That’s where the main action is!”
Behind the scenes
Love is produced by Yngve Sæther and Hege Hauff Hvattum for Motlys, with co-production by the Oslo Filmfond. The film’s success is a testament to the collaborative efforts of its talented team and the universal themes it explores.
Reflections for cinema enthusiasts
For those who cherish cinema that delves deep into the human psyche and challenges societal norms, Love is a must-watch. Haugerud’s ability to weave complex characters and intimate narratives offers a refreshing perspective on relationships and self-discovery. The film’s success across various territories underscores its universal appeal and the growing demand for stories that resonate on a personal level.
A broader context
In the current landscape of cinema, where blockbuster franchises often dominate, films like Love remind us of the power of storytelling that is both intimate and expansive. They invite us to reflect on our own lives and the myriad ways we connect with others. As Love continues to reach new audiences, it serves as a beacon for the kind of thoughtful and compassionate filmmaking that the world needs now more than ever.
By embracing the themes of love, intimacy, and communication, Haugerud’s trilogy offers a rich tapestry of human experiences that are both relatable and enlightening. For cinema enthusiasts, this is an opportunity to engage with films that challenge and inspire, leaving a lasting impact long after the credits roll.