Norwegian films have never been more popular with foreign audiences. Their export value is increasing as interest from abroad grows.
31/12/2007 :: “We are in daily contact with foreign film festivals, sales agents and buyers,” says Vigdis Lian, director of the Norwegian Film Institute. “With four films and a Palme d’Or, 2006 was a year in which many people abroad had their eyes opened to the potential of the Norwegian film sector.” She explains that the interest for Norwegian film has been increasing since 2002.
This positive trend is continuing, with more and more foreign audiences watching Norwegian films.
Nordic market
The Nordic countries remain the most important market for Norwegian film producers, due to joint distribution arrangements and financing from the Nordisk Film & TV Fond. Outside this area, Norwegian film is most popular in German-speaking countries like Germany, Switzerland and Austria, in the Benelux countries, and on pay TV channels from Eastern and Central Eastern Europe.
Den brysomme mannen / The bothersome man.Photo/copyright: Tordenfilm/Sandrew Metronome Norge.
New markets
Large markets like France, Spain and Italy have also shown interest, and more and more films are being distributed in the US. In recent years, new markets for Norwegian film have opened up in the Far East, in countries like India, China, the Philippines, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan and South Korea. Some individual films have also enjoyed success in South and Latin America, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.
Increased exports
The total export value of Norwegian films has reached NOK 24 million. The income generated by Norwegian films trebled from 2002 to 2006, an increase of NOK 3.8 million.
From the film "Fritt vilt".
Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs