‘Sex,’ a Daring Norwegian Movie Playing at the Berlinale, Finds North American Home With Strand Releasing (EXCLUSIVE)
- Oops!Something went wrong.Please try again later.
Strand Releasing has acquired North American rights to Dag Johan Haugerud’s “Sex” following its premiere in the Panorama section at the Berlin Film Festival.
The movie, which is represented in international markets by M-Appeal, is the first part of Haugerud‘s “Sex Dreams Love,” an exploration of sexuality and gender roles.
More from Variety
The film, the first part of the “Sex Dreams Love” trilogy by Norway’s Dag Johan Haugerud, has garnered attention for its thought-provoking exploration of sexuality and gender roles.
“Sex” follows two men in heterosexual marriages, who have an unexpected experience that challenges them to reconsider their understanding of sexuality, gender and identity. One has a sexual encounter with another man, without considering it either as an expression of homosexuality or infidelity and discusses it with his wife afterwards. The other finds himself in nocturnal dreams where he is seen as a woman, stirring confusion and leading him to question how much his personality is shaped by the gaze of others.
The deal was done between Jon Gerrans of Strand Releasing and Maren Kroymann of M-Appeal.
“We’re thrilled to be be handling this provocative and thought provoking film that tackles the preconceived notions of male masculinity in our contemporary world,” said Gerrans.
Maren Kroymann at M-Appeal said this “thought-provoking film will spark conversations about intimacy, sexual identity, and fidelity within long, happy relationships.”
“Our enduring partnership with Strand fills us with excitement as we entrust them with the distribution of this important piece of cinema, sensing deeply that the quality of the film will resonate with their audiences, who are poised to engage in meaningful conversations,” said Kroymann.
Haugerud’s previous films have received multiple awards and nominations, including a Dragon Award for best Nordic film at Goteborg for “Beware of Children” and a New Voices/New Visions Grand Jury Prize nomination for “I Belong” at Palm Springs.
“Sex” was produced by Yngve Sæther and Hege Hauff Hvattum for Motlys. Arthaus will handle the domestic distribution in Norway. Strand previously released Motley’s production, “Oslo, August 31st” by Joachim Trier.
“Sex” previously sold to France (Pyramide Distribution), Greece (Cinobo) and South Korea (JinJin Pictures). Strand Releasing is planning to theatrically release this fall, following its run in North American festivals.
Best of Variety
Sign up for Variety’s Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
