Exploring the human connection: Dag Johan Haugerud’s trilogy on sex, love, and dreams
A fresh perspective on intimacy
Dag Johan Haugerud, the acclaimed Norwegian director, is on a mission to reshape our understanding of sex and intimacy. In his latest film, “Love,” which follows the award-winning “Sex,” Haugerud delves into the complexities of human connection, aiming to normalize conversations around physical attraction and intimacy. The film, which premiered at the Venice Film Festival, is the second installment in a trilogy that will conclude with “Dreams.”
“If you always show it as something dark and dangerous … that’s just wrong. I wanted to show sex as normal and ordinary, as something that doesn’t need to feel threatening or be all about spicy imagery. It’s a part of everyday life,” Haugerud explains.
The essence of communication
In “Love,” Haugerud continues to explore the theme of communication, a central element in all three films. The story revolves around Marianne, a doctor in Oslo, and Tor, a nurse who works with her. Their conversations reveal their deepest desires and fears, challenging societal norms and personal insecurities.
“We should talk more about physical attraction and all these sensations. Otherwise, and also because of the way it’s portrayed in the media, many young people will just continue to associate sex with violence,” Haugerud emphasizes.
A reflection on Norwegian society
Haugerud’s films offer a poignant reflection on Norwegian society, particularly its discomfort with bodily functions, sexuality, and illness. Through his characters, he highlights the shame and fear that often accompany these topics, advocating for a more open and accepting approach.
“I try to describe Norwegian society in these films and most people, unless they work in a hospital like these two, are scared of bodily functions, sexuality, and illness. We don’t know how to approach these things and we often end up feeling shame. It shouldn’t be this way,” Haugerud notes.
The body as a battlefield
One of the most striking aspects of Haugerud’s work is his portrayal of the body as a battlefield. His characters grapple with societal expectations and personal insecurities, striving to accept their bodies and their needs.
“You fight against these images of how a body ‘should’ look like, you try to make it look better, then you also experience all these things with it. Having sex for the first, second, third time can be so different. It takes time to get to know your body and accept its needs. It’s a battlefield against the whole world AND against yourself,” Haugerud reflects.
Kindness and community
Despite the struggles his characters face, Haugerud approaches their stories with tenderness and kindness. He believes that showing how things could be, rather than how they are, is crucial for fostering a sense of community and understanding.
“A big part of this trilogy has to do with showing how things could be like. If you want to have a good life, kindness is so important. You could say it’s an idealistic approach, that it’s some utopia, but I think it’s important to show it’s actually possible,” Haugerud asserts.
The journey ahead
As Haugerud prepares for the premiere of “Dreams,” he reflects on the journey that has dominated the last few years of his life. While he is ready to let go of these stories, he hints at the possibility of future projects that continue to explore these themes.
“It’s like saying goodbye to an old friend,” he laughs. “At the beginning, I thought that [calling these films] ‘Sex,’ ‘Love,’ and ‘Dreams’ would sound too pretentious. These are big words, sure, but these are also the main topics in our lives. They are connected: Love is part of sex and sex is part of love.”
A potential new trilogy
Haugerud’s passion for storytelling is evident, and he hints that there might be more to come.
“Now that I’ve finished the third film, I’m realizing I’m not done just yet. I could go on! If I even get the money, I might actually do that,” he muses.
For those who have followed Haugerud’s work, the prospect of another trilogy is an exciting one. His films offer a unique and thought-provoking perspective on the human experience, challenging us to reflect on our own lives and relationships.
Watch the trailer for “Dreams”
Dag Johan Haugerud’s trilogy is a testament to the power of cinema to provoke thought and inspire change. By addressing topics that are often considered taboo, he encourages us to have open and honest conversations about intimacy, love, and our own bodies. His work is a reminder that kindness and understanding are essential for building a better world.