Real Human Stories & Icy Beauty In Program For 12th Nordic Film Festival

The Nordic Film Festival returns this year, presenting a program of the finest films from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden, and audiences should be enchanted by the raw human stories and breathtaking landscapes.

Admissions to this festival continue to grow each year and Festival Director Elysia Zeccola said it’s wonderful to see more Australians embracing Nordic cinema.

“We’ve built a loyal audience, but we’re also welcoming plenty of first-time festivalgoers who are discovering just how diverse, entertaining and thought-provoking Nordic films can be.”

There are 24 films in the program which span a wide range of genres and there’s a cultural element which ties these films together.

“Many of these films explore the complexities of family relationships and the ties that bind us. Whether it’s the relations between parents and children (Fjord), siblings (Butterfly), or communities (Árru) being challenged, these stories examine universal human experiences through a distinctly Nordic lens.”

Zeccola explained that even though the stories are set in the Nordic countries, the emotions and themes are universal, and Nordic storytelling should resonate with Australian audiences.

“Audiences connect with compelling characters, family relationships, love, loss, humour and resilience, regardless of where a film is made. I also think Australians appreciate authentic storytelling, and that’s something Nordic cinema does exceptionally well. These films aren’t afraid to tackle complex issues with honesty and humanity, while often balancing drama with warmth and subtle humour.”

We can only imagine how difficult it must be to decide which film should open the festival. What elements of the opening night dramatic film Árru were the deciding factor?

“This film perfectly captures what this festival is all about: powerful storytelling, breathtaking landscapes, and a deeply human story. It shines a light on the Sámi people and the challenges of preserving their culture and traditions in a changing world. Its themes of identity, family, belonging and protecting what matters most are universal.”

When asked which film she would choose to convert people who don’t enjoy films with subtitles Zeccola was quick to respond.

“I’d choose Home from Norway. It is funny and easy to connect with, making it a perfect choice for someone who may not usually watch subtitled films. The humour and characters are so engaging that you’ll quickly forget you’re reading subtitles.”

All film festivals have hidden gems which audiences may inadvertently fail to notice, and she believes that Butterfly is definitely that unexpected gem.

“Butterfly stars the brilliant Renate Reinsve, whose performances are always captivating. It’s a beautifully acted drama that explores family, grief and second chances. Renate brings incredible depth to the role, and the chemistry between the cast makes the relationships feel completely authentic. It’s one of those films that quietly sneaks up on you.”

With so many wonderful films in the program, Zeccola also stressed that award-winning The Last Resort is another exceptionally well-crafted piece of cinema which is not to be missed.

“It keeps audiences on the edge of their seats while delivering complex, believable characters and an emotionally gripping story. What makes the film so powerful is that it doesn’t offer easy answers. Instead, it explores themes of privilege, morality and the difficult choices people make under pressure. Those are universal issues that resonate regardless of where you live.”

Hot picks for the 2026 Nordic Film Festival

The Fires – This is based on the eponymous best-selling novel, and it is a gripping Icelandic thriller which follows a volcanologist whose personal life erupts just as a volcanic crisis threatens Reykjavík. It won six Icelandic Film Awards and spectacularly features Iceland’s real volcanic landscape in an astonishing backdrop that feels almost apocalyptic.

The Last Viking – If you enjoy black comedy, this one is not to be missed. Starring the ever-charismatic Mads Mikkelsen, it’s a wonderfully offbeat tale of dysfunctional family dynamics, eccentric characters and increasingly outrageous situations. It’s dark, funny and unmistakably Nordic.

Being Bo Widerberg – This is a fascinating portrait of one of Sweden’s greatest filmmakers and the visionary who challenged Ingmar Bergman to redefine Swedish cinema. Through rare archival footage and personal insights, Being Bo Widerberg celebrates the passion, creativity and rebellious spirit of a director whose influence continues to inspire filmmakers around the world.

The Nordic Film Festival is on from July 23 – August 16 at Palace Cinemas.