Haugesund New Nordic Films Unveils 21 Co-Production Projects and 15 Works in Progress for 32nd Edition

New Nordic Films, the industry conference accompanying the Norwegian International Film Festival in Haugesund, Norway, has unveiled the complete lineup of Nordic features selected for its 32nd edition running Aug. 25-28. The announcement showcases a robust selection of projects that highlights the strength and diversity of contemporary Nordic cinema, drawing record levels of submissions across multiple categories.

The Nordic Co-Production Market (NCPM), one of New Nordic Films’ premier showcases, will platform 21 titles currently in development, selected from more than 120 submissions-a record level matching 2025’s figures. Gyda Velvin Myklebust, head of industry, emphasized the exceptional quality of the Norwegian lineup, which features nine final picks from 30 submissions, including five debuts from first-time feature directors.

The Norwegian contingent demonstrates particular strength this year, with veteran industry professionals noting the impressive depth of talent emerging from the country. The selection process reflects a careful curation that balances established voices with fresh perspectives, creating opportunities for both seasoned filmmakers and newcomers to connect with international partners and financing opportunities.

Female Directors Turn to Horror With Prestigious Backing

Among the most anticipated projects available for sales are two horror films from female directors who bring impressive credentials and the support of pedigreed producers. The supernatural horror “Vagina Dentata” marks the fiction debut of Oslo-based Nataša Urban, a CPH:DOX winner whose 2022 documentary “The Eclipse” earned selections at IDFA and MoMa. Urban has partnered with seasoned documentary producer Ingvil Giske of Medieoperatørene, the production company behind Sundance winners “The Remarkable Life of Ibelin” and “The Painter and the Thief.”

The collaboration between Urban and Giske represents a significant crossover between documentary expertise and narrative fiction, bringing documentary sensibilities to genre filmmaking. The project’s provocative title and supernatural elements suggest a bold creative vision that challenges conventional horror tropes while maintaining commercial appeal for international markets.

Another female-driven horror project, “The Virtuous” by Ina Grevstad, takes its story to 1349 Western Norway and centers on female empowerment themes. Mer Film produces the project, drawing on their track record with “Sentimental Value” and “The Ugly Stepsister.” The historical setting combined with genre elements positions the film as both a period piece and a contemporary commentary on gender dynamics.

Established Nordic Directors Return With Social Dramas

Norwegian director Jorunn Myklebust Syversen, known for “Disco” and “The Tree Feller,” will helm the social drama “Patience” for top Norwegian banner Paradox. Her return to feature filmmaking brings an established voice to character-driven storytelling, continuing her exploration of human relationships and social dynamics that has defined her previous work.

Haugesund-born director Pål Jackman, recognized for “Detektor” and “The Storm in My Heart,” makes his comeback to feature films after directing a string of successful series including “A Sámi Wedding” and “State of Happiness.” His family drama “Domesticated Animal” marks a return to cinematic storytelling following his acclaimed work in prestige television, bringing the narrative depth developed in long-form series back to the feature format.

The lineup also includes several established names from across the Nordic region who will pitch their projects to the 300 industry attendees expected at the event. Iceland‘s Hilmar Oddsson, director of “Driving Mum,” will present the Alzheimer’s drama “At the End of the Road”, while Finland‘s AJ Annila, known for “The Eternal Road,” brings the period drama “The Touch of Light”. Sweden‘s Martina Haag rounds out the international selection with the feel-good comedy “True Love”.

French Focus Expands International Co-Production Opportunities

In a significant international expansion, four French projects seeking co-financing and distribution primarily from Nordic partners will be showcased at the Nordic Co-Production Market as part of the French Focus initiative. The projects-“All the Softness in the World,” “Boutès,” “Boderline,” and “Temporary Lives”-represent a strategic bridge between French and Nordic film industries, creating new pathways for cross-border collaboration and funding.

This French component adds a new dimension to the traditionally Nordic-focused market, reflecting the increasingly interconnected nature of European film financing and distribution. The initiative demonstrates New Nordic Films’ commitment to fostering international partnerships while maintaining its core focus on Scandinavian cinema.

Works in Progress Selection Highlights Post-Production Quality

The 15-title Works in Progress lineup, selected from 43 submissions, presents a similar blend of genres and showcases both seasoned and rising talent from across the Nordic region. Industry insiders noted that this year’s selection process proved easier due to the high quality of projects in post-production, though some suggested this may reflect broader challenges in reaching production completion in the current financing environment.

The Works in Progress section serves as a crucial platform for films nearing completion to attract sales agents, distributors, and festival programmers. These screenings often provide the first industry glimpse of projects that will go on to premiere at major international festivals, making them a vital barometer of upcoming Nordic cinema trends.

The 32nd edition of New Nordic Films continues the event’s tradition of spotlighting the most promising Nordic film projects while expanding its international reach through initiatives like the French Focus. The combination of development projects and near-complete works provides a comprehensive overview of the Nordic film landscape, from early-stage pitching through final post-production, creating multiple entry points for industry professionals seeking Nordic content and co-production partners.