Frenetic Films, a highly regarded arthouse and crossover distribution house based in Zurich, has made a significant move by securing the Swiss rights to “Solomamma,” a film already generating considerable buzz. This acquisition marks a crucial pre-Locarno business deal, highlighting the growing anticipation surrounding this particular title as it prepares for its world premiere at a major international festival.
The eagerly awaited “Solomamma” is set to make its debut in the main International Competition at the prestigious Locarno Film Festival, scheduled to run from August 6-16. Its inclusion in such a prominent segment underscores the film’s artistic merit and its potential to captivate global audiences and critics alike, establishing its position as a standout feature of the festival’s lineup.
The deal for “Solomamma” was expertly brokered by Playtime, a leading pan-European sales agent and production force, demonstrating their astute market presence. Beyond the Swiss acquisition, Playtime has also successfully closed pre-sales in key territories, including Italy with Teodora, Benelux with Imagine, Israel with New Cinema, and Hungary with Budapest Film, showcasing the film’s strong international appeal even before its official premiere.
Originating from Norway, “Solomamma” carries historical significance for the nation’s cinema, being the first Norwegian film selected for Locarno’s main competition since “Wives” in 1975. This return to such a distinguished platform for Norwegian storytelling is a testament to the film’s compelling narrative and production quality, building on previous recognition at various international film events.
The film boasts a talented cast, featuring the acclaimed Lisa Loven Kongsli, known for her role in “Force Majeure,” and Herbert Nordrum, recognized for his work in “The Worst Person in the World.” Their performances are anticipated to elevate the film’s emotional depth and draw critical attention, contributing significantly to its overall artistic impact and audience engagement.
Sébastien Beffa, co-CEO of Playtime, expressed immense satisfaction with the partnership, stating, “We are delighted that Frenetic is our partner for the distribution of ‘Solomamma’ in Switzerland. We have built up a strong relationship over many years and are very confident that they will do an excellent job of promoting this highly contemporary film, with its sharp insight from a director who I believe will continue to build on this promising start.”
Echoing this sentiment, Mischa Schiwow, co-director of Frenetic Films, commented on their ongoing appreciation for Norwegian filmmaking. Schiwow remarked, “Frenetic Films has been following exciting Norwegian filmmaking for several years now. Following ‘Armand’ by Halfdan Ullman Tøndel, we are delighted to bring ‘Solomamma’ by Janicke Askevold, another newcomer from Norway, to Swiss cinemas,” further cementing the film’s strategic importance for their distribution slate.
“Solomamma” is the product of a collaborative international effort, led by Bacon Pictures Oslo with producers Rebekka Rognøy, Magnus Nygaard Albertsen, and Gary Cranner. Co-production support came from esteemed entities like Lithuania’s Dansu Films, Latvia’s Mistrus Media, Finland’s It’s Alive, and Bacon Pictures CPH from Denmark, reflecting a robust global network behind this anticipated cinematic release.
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