The Nordic region, renowned for its captivating storytelling and high-quality productions, is taking a significant step forward with the introduction of the Nordic Series Script Award. This initiative, spearheaded by the Göteborg Film Festival in collaboration with the Nordisk Film & TV Fond, aims to recognize and celebrate outstanding talent across Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden. This year marks the first-ever nominations for this distinguished accolade, setting the stage for an exciting evolution in Nordic television.
The nominees for the inaugural Nordic Series Script Award feature an impressive lineup of creators who have made waves in their respective countries. From Denmark, “Families Like Ours,” penned by the accomplished duo Thomas Vinterberg and Bo Hr. Hansen, tells a relevant story of familial dynamics in contemporary society. Finland’s “Money Shot,” written by Jemina Jokisalo, delivers a daring narrative that promises to challenge societal norms. In Sweden, Pelle Rådström’s “Pressure Point” captures the essence of human resilience amid adversity, while “Quisling,” a gripping tale from Norway by Anna Bache-Wiig and Siv Rajendram Eliassen, dives into the complexities of morality during tumultuous times. Lastly, Iceland presents “The School of Housewives,” written by Arnór Pálmi Arnarson and Jóhanna Fridrika Sæmundsdóttir, showcasing the often-overlooked stories of domestic life with an innovative twist.
The integrity of the North Series Script Award is underpinned by a diverse and experienced jury panel. Comprising Henriette Steenstrup, a prominent actor and screenwriter from Norway, Joanna Szymańska, the CEO of SHIPsBOY from Poland, and Linus Fremin, a seasoned TV critic and creative director in Sweden, this jury promises to bring deep insights and varied perspectives to the evaluation process. Their collective experience in the industry places them in a unique position to appreciate the nuances of storytelling that resonate across Nordic borders.
In a bold move to foster innovation in the face of economic challenges, the Göteborg Film Festival will also introduce the Creative Courage Award. This honor will be specifically awarded to producers and commissioners who take risks on groundbreaking series. According to Liselott Forsman, CEO at Nordisk Film & TV Fond, the award is instrumental in highlighting the significance of bold collaborations that push creative boundaries. As the entertainment industry navigates tough economic climates, the emphasis on creativity becomes more crucial, encouraging stakeholders to take calculated risks.
As anticipation builds for the award ceremony scheduled for January 28, 2025, the 2024 winners of the Nordisk Film & TV Fond Prize, including talents like Johan Fasting, Silje Storstein, and Kristin Grue for their work on the Norwegian drama “Power Play,” remind us of the rich tapestry of Nordic storytelling. Cia Edström, Head of TV Drama Vision at the Göteborg Film Festival, echoes this optimism, expressing excitement about the opportunity to celebrate the continuous evolution of Nordic drama. The introductions of these awards herald a new era, one where creativity and innovation take center stage in the region’s cinematic journey, promising an inspiring future for filmmakers and audiences alike.