The Nordic Council Film Prize has long been a beacon of excellence within the film industry, celebrating the creativity and storytelling richness in Nordic cinema. For 2025, this prestigious award is taking a new turn: for the first time in its two-decade history, the shortlist has been expanded to seven nominations. Reflecting the extraordinary quality of this year’s Nordic films, the newly announced nominees showcase groundbreaking stories, captivating visuals, and profound human narratives.
Trailblazing Stories in Nordic Cinema
Among the nominees is celebrated Norwegian director Dag Johan Haugerud, whose film “Dreams” concludes his critically acclaimed Oslo trilogy. A winner of the Berlinale Golden Bear, “Dreams” is a poignant exploration of first love, identity, and the blurred lines between truth and memory. Another standout is Iceland’s Rúnar Rúnarsson, whose “When the Light Breaks” premiered at Cannes, delving into themes of grief and the fleeting beauty in our lives.
Breaking new ground, the Faroe Islands have earned their first-ever nomination with Sakaris Stórá’s “The Last Paradise on Earth.” This heartfelt drama examines the struggles of a small remote fishing village navigating grief and ecological change. Stórá emphasizes the universal nature of his story, focusing on how siblings learn to connect amidst challenging circumstances.
Diverse Documentary Showcases
This year’s nominations prove the power of documentary storytelling, with remarkable projects like Finland’s “The Helsinki Effect.” Directed by Arthur Franck, it explores the art of diplomacy during the Cold War through archival material. Sweden’s “Israel Palestine on Swedish TV 1958–1989” by Göran Hugo Olsson also makes waves, examining decades of televised portrayals of the Israel-Palestine conflict.
Greenland shines with its documentary “Walls – Akinni Inuk,” which tackles themes of trauma, resilience, and justice. Directed by Sofie Rørdam and Nina Paninnguaq Skydsbjerg, the film highlights the strength of human connection and sheds light on Greenland’s complex relationship with Denmark.
A Step Forward for Nordic Inclusivity
The inclusion of both Greenlandic and Faroese films for the first time marks substantial progress in amplifying underrepresented voices within Nordic cinema. Greenlandic producer Emile Hertling Péronard highlights the significance of initiatives like the Norddok funding scheme, which has enabled filmmakers from smaller regions to tell their stories and gain global recognition.
Scheduled for announcement on October 21, 2025, the Nordic Council Film Prize winner will share a DKK 300,000 ($47,022) prize among the director, screenwriter, and producer. It’s not just a celebration of Nordic storytelling but also a testament to the power of cinema to transcend borders and captivate audiences worldwide.
Experience the Nordic Spirit
For movie enthusiasts looking to explore these groundbreaking works, many of these films are expected to premiere at international festivals and online platforms soon. Enhance your Nordic viewing experience by diving into themed movie nights or relaxing with items that celebrate Nordic minimalism and design, like candles from Skandinavisk. Transform your home into a cozy haven, perfectly complementing the stunning visuals and emotions of these inspiring stories.
