Norway’s deep fjords have always invited stories. With steep mountains plunging into dark water and sudden weather changes commonplace, it's easy to understand why myths of sea monsters took hold along the coast.

That atmosphere is at the heart of Kraken, a Norwegian monster movie that brings one of Scandinavia’s most famous sea legends into the modern age.

Set around the Sognefjord, Norway's longest and deepest fjord, the film follows marine biologist Johanne Berge as she is sent to investigate a series of strange events in a fjord village.

Unusual natural phenomena, disturbing sounds from the deep and a tragic accident all point toward something far more dangerous beneath the surface.

Watch the Trailer

If that sounds interesting, check out the trailer for the movie:

I'd love to know what you think! Do let me know down in the comments.

Kraken Mythology

The kraken is one of the best-known creatures from Nordic sea folklore.

Often imagined as a giant octopus or squid-like monster capable of dragging ships below the waves, the creature has appeared in everything from old sailors’ tales to modern fantasy films and video games.

But in Norway, the legend feels especially at home. The country’s long coastline, fishing heritage and mysterious fjord landscapes provide a natural setting for such a story.

What to Expect in the Movie

Directed by PÃ¥l Øie,ÌıKraken blends creature-feature thrills with a distinctly Norwegian backdrop.

Rather than placing the action in a generic ocean setting, the film draws on the visual drama of Western Norway, where everyday life, aquaculture and ancient mythology all meet at the water’s edge.

Whether you watch it for the monster, the fjord scenery or simply the novelty of a Norwegian take on the creature-feature genre,ÌıKraken is another reminder that Norway’s landscapes are such fertile ground for stories of mystery, danger and imagination.

The post Kraken Legend Gets A Modern Monster-Movie Makeover appeared first on º£½ÇÖ±²¥.

For years, fans of Jo Nesbø have been waiting for a screen version of Harry Hole that truly works.

Now, with Detective Hole quickly rising to the top of Netflix in Norway, that moment may finally have arrived. But popularity alone is not a guarantee of quality. So, should you watch it?

A Darker, Sharper Oslo

One of the most compelling reasons to watch Detective Hole is its portrayal of Oslo.

This is not the polished, fjord-front capital often presented in travel marketing. Instead, the show leans into something more stylised. Jo Nesbø has described it as “Oslo plus ten percent�, a version of the city where everything is pushed slightly further.

The result is a capital that feels both familiar and unsettling.

Industrial backdrops, shadowy streets, and stark winter light all play a role. For viewers who know Oslo well, there is an added layer of intrigue in recognising real locations reimagined through a noir lens.

For everyone else, it’s simply a striking setting that helps define the tone of the series.

A Harry Hole That Finally Feels Right

Casting has always been a challenge for Harry Hole. The character is complex, flawed, and deeply internal.

Previous attempts, most notably ‘The Snowman’, struggled to capture that balance. Here,ÌıTobias Santelmann steps into the role with confidence. Early reviews consistently highlight his performance as one of the show’s biggest strengths.

Alongside him, Joel Kinnaman delivers a compelling and unpredictable Tom Waaler, while Pia Tjelta provides emotional grounding as Rakel. Together, the cast gives the series a credibility that earlier adaptations lacked.

It Feels Like Proper Nordic Noir

If you enjoy Scandinavian crime drama, this series delivers exactly what you expect. The pacing is deliberate. The tone is heavy. The crimes are unsettling.

In other words, it embraces the conventions of Nordic noir rather than trying to reinvent them.

For fans of the genre, that is a strength. The atmosphere is immersive, supported by a brooding score from Nick Cave and Warren Ellis.

For others, especially those looking for something faster or more original, it may feel overly familiar.

What Critics Are Saying

Early reviews suggest a clear consensus: Detective Hole is well-made, well-acted, and visually striking, but not without its flaws.

Writing for ,ÌıRichard Roeper praised the production values and performances, calling it an “effectively grisly and beautifully mounted effortâ€� with “superb performances.â€�

He added that Tobias Santelmann is “perfectly cast.â€� However, he also noted that if the series had been trimmed to “five or six episodes, it might well have been masterful.â€�

At the ,ÌıJames Hibbs awarded the show three stars, writing that it “plays the grim hits but fails to stand out.â€� He praised the cast, particularly Joel Kinnaman, but argued that the story feels stretched, with a “perfect six-episode storyâ€� expanded into nine episodes, leading to repetition.

The The New York Times offered a more critical perspective. Reviewer Mike Hale wrote that the series leans into “sadism, sensationalism and crescendoing gore over plausibility,â€� and described Harry Hole himself as “kind of a drag,â€� despite acknowledging the show’s polished production.

²Ñ±ğ²¹²Ô·É³ó¾±±ô±ğ,Ìı°Õ³ó±ğ  struck a more positive tone, describing the show as a “moody adaptationâ€� and noting that it is “better than The Snowman,â€� a comparison that underlines how this series succeeds where the 2017 film struggled.

In the UK,Ìı called it a “rollicking Scandi-action ride,â€� suggesting a more entertaining and accessible take on the material than some critics expected.

Norwegian reviews have broadly echoed this balance. VG noted that the series could benefit from tighter editing, with some repetition in the middle episodes, but still praised its ability to maintain tension.

Meanwhile, Dagbladet highlighted Santelmann’s performance as a career-best. Aftenposten also praised the lead performance, while acknowledging that the series is not without flaws.

Across the board, one criticism appears again and again: it is simply too long for its story.

The Verdict: Should You Watch It?

If you enjoy Nordic noir, the answer is simple. Yes.

Detective Hole delivers a dark, atmospheric story with strong performances and a compelling sense of place. It finally gives Harry Hole a screen adaptation that feels true to the source material.

However, if you prefer fast-paced storytelling or something more original, you may find it drags at times.

This is not a reinvention of the genre. It is a confident, polished example of it. And for many viewers, that will be more than enough.

The post Should You Watch Jo Nesbø’s Detective Hole on Netflix? appeared first on º£½ÇÖ±²¥.

Back in 2018, there were whispers that the next James Bond film might come to Norway. At the time, it felt like an intriguing possibility rather than a certainty.

But when No Time to Die finally arrived, those rumours had turned into something much more substantial. Norway »å¾±»å²Ô’t just make a cameo. It helped shape the tone of the film’s most haunting and visually striking moments.

And it became the latest in a string of iconic Norway locations featuring in big-name movie productions.

Norway’s Role in ‘No Time to Die'

As the final outing for Daniel Craig as 007, leans heavily into themes of memory, isolation, and emotional distance. Norway provides the perfect backdrop for that.

The film opens with a dramatic sequence centred on Madeleine Swann’s childhood, set against a stark, wintry landscape of frozen lakes and dense forest. It’s quiet, remote, and unsettling. In other words, unmistakably Nordic.

Director Cary Joji Fukunaga later explained that Norway’s sense of space and privacy made it a natural fit for the story. Remote cabins, long distances, and a culture that values solitude all helped ground the narrative in something believable.

The Frozen Lake Near Oslo

The film’s opening sequence was shot near Langvann, a lake in the forested hills north of Oslo, close to Nittedal and Hakadal.

While the story suggests a remote childhood home, the reality is that this location sits surprisingly close to the Norwegian capital. That contrast is very Norway: true wilderness, just a short distance from urban life.

Filming here was far from straightforward. The production built a house directly on the frozen lake, only to find themselves racing against an early thaw. Warmer-than-expected spring temperatures meant the ice began to soften, putting both the set and the schedule at risk.

At one point, the filmmakers were quite literally working against the clock as the structure threatened to sink into the lake. It’s a detail that adds another layer to the sequence. The tension on screen was mirrored, in part, by the conditions behind the camera.

Bond on the Atlantic Ocean Road

If there is one Norwegian location that truly steals the show, it’s the Atlantic Ocean Road.

This extraordinary stretch of coastal highway, part of the 36-kilometre national scenic route, winds its way across a chain of low islands via a series of sweeping bridges.

It has long been considered one of the most scenic drives in the world. With Bond, it gained a new cinematic identity.

The road appears during the film’s later action sequences, where its exposed position and dramatic curves amplify the sense of danger. Even without traffic, it feels like a place where the elements are always in control.

For travellers, this is one of the most accessible Bond locations in Norway. You can drive the same route, stop at the viewpoints, and experience the same shifting weather and vast ocean views that made it so compelling on screen.

Not Everything Is What It Seems

One of the most interesting aspects of No Time to Die is how it blends locations together.

Although Norway provides key scenes, the full car chase sequence is not filmed entirely here. Instead, it’s constructed from footage shot across multiple countries, including the UK and Scotland.

In fact, what appears to be a continuous journey through a Norwegian fjord landscape is, in reality, a carefully assembled mix of different places.

It’s a reminder of how modern filmmaking works. Norway provides the raw drama, but the final result is a seamless illusion.

Why Norway Works So Well on Screen

Norway has always had cinematic potential, but films like No Time to Die show exactly why.

First, there is the landscape. Few places offer such a combination of mountains, coastline, forest, and open space within relatively short distances.

Then there is the light. Whether it’s the deep blue tones of winter or the soft glow of a low Arctic sun, Norway naturally creates atmosphere that would be difficult to replicate in a studio.

And finally, there is the sense of scale. Even in a global franchise like Bond, Norway feels genuinely remote. That matters when the story calls for isolation and tension.

A Growing Destination for Film Productions

Bond is far from the only major production to take advantage of Norway’s scenery.

The Norwegian government offers a production incentive scheme, refunding a portion of costs to international filmmakers. The goal is not only to attract big-budget projects, but also to strengthen the domestic film industry and showcase the country’s landscapes to a global audience.

Previous productions have already made their mark. Ex Machina used the striking as a futuristic retreat, while Mission: Impossible – Fallout brought global attention to Preikestolen with its vertigo-inducing cliffside scene.

With Bond now added to that list, Norway’s reputation as a filming destination continues to grow.

What No Time to Die demonstrates is that Norway is more than just a beautiful setting. It shapes the story.

The silence of the forests, the fragility of the ice, and the exposure of the Atlantic coastline all feed into the emotional tone of the film. These are not interchangeable locations. They are integral to how the story feels.

Back in 2018, Norway was simply “under consideration� for Bond. Today, it’s part of Bond history.

The post Norway Calling Bond, James Bond appeared first on º£½ÇÖ±²¥.

When Wisting first appeared on Norwegian television in 2019, it arrived quietly. There was no attempt to reinvent Nordic noir, no shock marketing, and no stylised brutality designed to grab headlines.

Instead, Wisting offered something far more restrained: a grounded police drama built on routine, persistence, and moral weight. Over multiple seasons and an expanding international audience, that approach has proven to be its strength.

Based on the crime novels of Jørn Lier Horst, Wisting has since become one of Norway’s most successful modern crime exports. It is a series that reflects not just how Norwegian crime fiction is written, but how Norway often prefers to tell its stories.

From Bestselling Novels to Television Drama

William Wisting was already a familiar figure to Norwegian readers long before he reached the screen. Horst’s novels, many inspired by real criminal cases, had built a loyal following thanks to their procedural realism and quiet psychological depth.

That realism comes naturally. Before becoming a full-time author, Horst worked as a senior investigating officer in the Vestfold police district. His experience shows in the books, and it carries over clearly into the television adaptation.

The TV series does not attempt to compress or sensationalise the source material. Instead, it leans into methodical investigation, long timelines, and the slow accumulation of detail. Crimes are solved not through brilliance or coincidence, but through persistence, teamwork, and often uncomfortable compromises.

This makes Wisting feel distinctly Norwegian in tone, even as it travels well internationally.

William Wisting as a Nordic Noir Protagonist

At the centre of the series is a character who deliberately avoids the clichés of the genre. William Wisting is not volatile, self-destructive, or theatrically damaged.

He is widowed, quietly burdened, and deeply committed to his work, but he remains emotionally restrained and professionally disciplined.

That restraint is key to the series’ appeal. Wisting is portrayed as a man shaped by responsibility rather than obsession. His relationship with his journalist daughter adds emotional depth without tipping the story into melodrama.

The result is a protagonist who feels credible, particularly within the context of Norwegian policing and social norms. Authority is questioned, but not dismantled. Institutions are flawed, but rarely portrayed as corrupt caricatures.

Sven Nordin and Understated Performances

The success of the adaptation rests heavily on the performance of  in the title role. Known internationally for his role in Valkyrien, Nordin brings a calm, deliberate presence to Wisting that matches the tone of the novels.

His portrayal avoids the emotional extremes common in crime drama. Small gestures, silences, and physical fatigue do much of the storytelling. It is a performance that trusts the audience to pay attention.

The first season also introduced an international element through the casting of  as FBI agent Maggie Griffin. Rather than dominating the narrative, her role expanded the story’s scope and underlined the transnational nature of modern crime.

Crucially, the series never loses its Norwegian centre of gravity.

Vestfold as Setting, Not Spectacle

Wisting is filmed primarily in and around Larvik and Stavern in the Vestfold region. These locations are not used for visual drama alone. The coastal towns, quiet streets, and subdued landscapes reinforce the series’ atmosphere of ordinariness.

This is not a stylised noir cityscape. It is recognisably everyday Norway, where serious crimes unfold alongside normal lives. The choice of setting strengthens the realism of the story and subtly challenges international stereotypes of Scandinavian drama as uniformly dark or bleak.

In Wisting, violence intrudes into calm places, and that contrast is more unsettling than any dramatic backdrop.

A Different Kind of Nordic Noir

By the time Wisting had established itself across multiple seasons, it became clear that its success lay in what it »å¾±»å²Ô’t do. It avoids excessive darkness, visual gimmicks, and narrative shock tactics. Instead, it focuses on process, consequence, and emotional restraint.

This places it firmly within the Nordic noir tradition while also distinguishing it from more stylised or commercially aggressive series. Wisting trusts slow pacing, long conversations, and unresolved tensions.

For many viewers, particularly outside Scandinavia, this approach feels refreshingly authentic. It reflects a society that values procedure, accountability, and quiet competence over individual heroics.

Why Wisting Resonated Internationally

Wisting did not become a global phenomenon overnight, but it travelled steadily. International broadcasters and streaming platforms found an audience drawn to its realism and character-driven storytelling.

The themes it explores, grief, responsibility, moral ambiguity, and the limits of institutional power, translate easily across borders. At the same time, the series offers a distinctly Norwegian perspective on policing, family life, and social trust.

That balance between local specificity and universal themes is what ultimately made Wisting work beyond Norway.

A Lasting Place in Norwegian Crime Drama

Several years on from its debut, Wisting stands as a strong example of how Norwegian television drama can succeed without compromising its identity. It respects its literary origins, reflects real professional experience, and allows stories to unfold at their natural pace.

Rather than asking whether Wisting would become the next Nordic noir hit, the more interesting question now is what it represents. It shows that quiet, carefully made crime drama can still travel far, provided it remains honest to its setting and characters.

In that sense, Wisting is not just a successful adaptation. It is a statement about how Norway tells its stories, calmly, credibly, and on its own terms.

The post Wisting: How Norwegian Crime Novels Became a Nordic Noir Success appeared first on º£½ÇÖ±²¥.

The film is now competing in some of the Oscars’ most prestigious categories, placing a deeply Norwegian story firmly in the global spotlight.

For many people in Norway, the attention is less about awards night glamour and more about what this moment represents for Norwegian cinema. Here’s what to know about the film making headlines around the world.

1. A Rare Oscar Breakthrough for a Norwegian Film

With including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actor, and Best Original Screenplay,ÌıSentimental Value has achieved a level of recognition rarely seen for a Norwegian production.

It is competing directly against major international releases and some of the most powerful names in contemporary cinema.

While Norway has had success in the Best International Feature category in the past, it is far less common for a Norwegian-language film to break into the Oscars’ main categories in this way.

The scale of the nominations has turned the film into a national talking point almost overnight.

2. Joachim Trier’s Most International Moment Yet

The film is directed by Joachim Trier, one of Norway’s most .

The Danish-Norwegian has spent more than a decade building a reputation for intimate, character-driven stories with films such as Reprise,ÌıOslo, August 31st, and The Worst Person in the World.

°Â¾±³Ù³óÌıSentimental Value, Trier appears to have reached a new level of global recognition.

Critics have frequently compared the film’s themes and emotional restraint to the work of Ingmar Bergman, particularly in its exploration of family, memory, silence, and unresolved emotional trauma.

3. Renate Reinsve Leads a Standout Cast

The film stars Renate Reinsve as Nora, a successful stage actress navigating grief, professional pressure, and a deeply complicated relationship with her father.

Reinsve’s performance has earned her a Best Actress nomination, following her international breakthrough in The Worst Person in the World.

She is joined by Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas as her younger sister Agnes, whose quieter presence provides a powerful counterpoint to Nora’s emotional distance. Together, the sisters form the emotional core of the film.

4. A Historic Nomination for Stellan Skarsgård

One of the most talked-about nominations is for Stellan Skarsgård, who plays the sisters’ estranged father, Gustav. In the film, Gustav is a once-renowned director whose attempts at reconciliation come through his work rather than emotional openness, a trait that has shaped his fractured relationship with his daughters.

The nomination marks Skarsgård’s first Academy Award nomination and a rare milestone for Scandinavian performers in the Best Supporting Actor category. While he is internationally famous for roles in everything from arthouse cinema to major Hollywood franchises, recognition from the Academy has remained elusive until now.

Speaking after the nominations were announced, Skarsgård , sharing the news with his wife and youngest children while at home in Sweden.

He also noted the irony of being nominated for playing an absent father, given his reputation as the patriarch of a large acting family, several of whom have followed him into the profession.

Critics have praised Skarsgård’s performance for its balance of warmth, charm, and emotional clumsiness. Gustav is neither villain nor hero but a flawed, often frustrating figure whose inability to communicate honestly is as tragic as it is recognisable.

That complexity, many reviewers suggest, is central to why the performance has resonated so strongly during awards season.

5. Why an American Star Is Central to the Story

Hollywood actor Elle Fanning plays Rachel Kemp, an American actress cast in the role originally written for Nora after she refuses to participate in her father’s comeback film.

Rachel’s presence introduces an intentional cultural contrast, highlighting differences in language, emotional expression, and artistic tradition.

Several critics have noted how the American character’s openness and enthusiasm clash with the restrained Nordic emotional landscape, creating moments of tension that drive much of the film’s subtle drama.

6. A Story Rooted in Family, Memory, and Art

At its heart, Sentimental Value is a family drama. It explores grief following the death of the sisters’ mother, the emotional fallout of parental absence, and the ways in which artists draw from their personal histories, sometimes at great personal cost.

The family home plays a symbolic role as a repository of memory and unresolved history, while performance, both on stage and on film, becomes a way for characters to avoid or confront their past. Much of the film’s emotional weight lies in what remains unsaid.

7. Critical Praise, With Some Debate

While many critics have hailed Sentimental Value as Joachim Trier’s most mature and accomplished work, not all responses have been unreservedly positive.

argue that the film ultimately lets its central father figure off too easily, prioritising artistic reconciliation over moral reckoning.

What is clear is that the film has sparked serious discussion. Whether praised or questioned, it has engaged audiences and critics alike, often a strong indicator of awards-season success.

A Landmark Moment for Norwegian Cinema

Regardless of how many Oscars it ultimately wins, Sentimental Value has already secured its place in Norwegian film history. Its success demonstrates that Norwegian stories, told in Norwegian and grounded in Nordic sensibilities, can resonate on the world’s biggest cinematic stage.

For Norway’s film industry, this moment is about visibility, confidence, and the possibility of more locally rooted stories finding global audiences in the years ahead.

The post 7 Things To Know About Sentimental Value, Norway’s Oscar Sensation appeared first on º£½ÇÖ±²¥.

Rebel Royals: An Unlikely Love Story follows the relationship between Princess Märtha Louise and American shaman Durek Verrett, mixing romance with questions of race, tradition and public life.

But the Norwegian royal household says the couple’s participation in the film breaks an agreement designed to keep their commercial activities separate from the monarchy.

A Royal Romance in the Spotlight

The , released worldwide on 16 September 2025, comes just a year after Märtha Louise and Verrett married in Geiranger, a spectacular fjordside village in western Norway.

Their wedding was a private event compared to royal ceremonies elsewhere in Europe, but it still drew significant media interest.

Now, Netflix gives viewers a behind-the-scenes look at their relationship, from the early days of public scrutiny to the celebrations of their wedding.

The film mixes intimate moments with broader questions about what it means to marry into a royal family that represents a modern, egalitarian society.

Watch the Rebel Royals Trailer

Wondering what all the fuss is about? You can watch the trailer for the documentary right here:

Now, carry on scrolling to read the full story, including the controversy.

Who Are the Rebel Royals?

Princess Märtha Louise is the daughter of King Harald V and Queen Sonja. Fourth in line to the throne, she has long lived at the intersection of royal duty and personal independence.

In 2002 she gave up her official style of “Her Royal Highness� to pursue a private career, including her work as an author and her interests in spirituality.

Durek Verrett is an American spiritual teacher and self-described shaman. His unconventional beliefs and public profile attracted both fascination and criticism in Norway.

When their relationship became public, it sparked debate about whether Verrett’s commercial activities were compatible with his royal connection.

In 2022, Märtha Louise stepped back from official duties to create clearer boundaries between her private life and the monarchy.

What the Documentary Reveals

At its heart, Rebel Royals is a love story. But the documentary also touches on deeper issues. Verrett speaks openly about experiencing racism in Norway and claims that some members of the royal family did not initially understand the problem.

Viewers see the couple receiving anonymous hate messages, highlighting the darker side of public life.

The program also examines the challenges of balancing tradition with freedom. Märtha Louise talks about her decision to pursue a more spiritual path and the cost of stepping outside expectations.

Their story is presented as a test case of how modern monarchies adapt to diversity and individuality. Yet while international viewers may see it as a candid love story, the reaction in Norway has been far more complex.

The Palace Pushes Back

In Norway, however, the palace’s response was swift. Communications chief Guri Varpe that Märtha Louise and Verrett’s participation in Rebel Royals â€œis a breach of the agreement they have with the royal household.â€�

That 2022 agreement states that neither the princess nor her husband may use her title or royal status for commercial purposes, including media productions.

Varpe stressed that the palace did not contribute to the Netflix series. “Everyone should have the right to tell their own story,� she said, “but the royal household wants a clearer separation between the couple’s activities and the monarchy.�

Disputed Wedding Footage

Controversy intensified when it emerged that early versions of the documentary included a clip of Crown Prince Haakon speaking with Verrett at the wedding festivities.

The Royal Family had specifically refused Netflix permission to film private moments at the celebrations where other media were not allowed.

King Harald has previously criticised the commercialisation of the event, saying: “We don’t want the royal family to be for sale,â€� after it was revealed that the couple had sold exclusive rights to Hello! magazine and Netflix.

Following palace intervention, Netflix removed the disputed clip before the series went public.

Märtha Louise and Verrett Respond

Facing criticism from both the palace and commentators, the couple have now spoken out and acknowledged the seriousness of the situation.

In a statement to NRK, they said there were “without doubt things we wish we had handled differently,� while stressing they were not producers of the film and had no control over the final cut.

“We care deeply for every member of the royal family,� they wrote, “and it pains us if anything in this process has caused them harm.�

At the same time, they insisted that telling their story would be impossible without acknowledging Märtha Louise’s royal identity.

A Divisive Reaction

The Netflix release has split opinion in Norway. Supporters praise the documentary for raising issues around race, mental health, and the pressures of being in the public eye.

Critics see it as a thinly veiled commercial venture that leans heavily on royal status, in conflict with the 2022 agreement.

Aftenposten commentator Harald Stanghelle as “a purely commercial affair� that undermines efforts to draw a line between the couple’s private life and the monarchy. Crown Princess Mette-Marit has already suggested that discussions within the palace are inevitable.

What It Means for Norway

The documentary highlights a broader tension in Norwegian society: how to reconcile a modern, egalitarian monarchy with the personal choices of its members.

Norway’s royals are expected to embody humility and unity, yet their lives are inevitably shaped by personal ambitions, media deals and international attention.

For many international viewers, Rebel Royals may be their first introduction to Norway’s royal family. For Norwegians, it is another reminder of how even symbolic institutions can become flashpoints in debates over identity, commercialism, and tradition.

Whether praised as a love story or criticised as a breach of trust, Rebel Royals ensures that Märtha Louise and Verrett’s marriage remains part of a wider debate about Norway’s monarchy, its values, and its future.

The post Rebel Royals: Netflix Documentary Sparks Tension in Norway’s Royal Family appeared first on º£½ÇÖ±²¥.

The days of being tied to a TV schedule are long thanks to streaming services that deliver on-demand TV and movies around the clock.

Many modern smart TVs have built-in streaming apps for a seamless viewing experience. Others support technologies such as Google’s Chromecast, which allows the TV to display content streamed via a mobile phone, tablet or computer.

In Norway, a recent law change made dumping a TV subscription much more viable. Previously, cable companies bundled internet and TV services into one. Now, they must offer an internet-only subscription, although in most cases it isn't much cheaper.

We joined the cord-cutters as soon as the rule was introduced, because neither of us were “regular TV� watchers.

Instead, we like to watch specific series (many of them international) as and when we have the chance, not when a provider decides. We also consume all Norwegian news online.

Many of the packages in this article are also available through a TV service, but we are focusing on the streaming packages for those without a TV subscription.

Norwegian & Nordic Streaming Services in Norway

A lot of popular Norwegian TV programmes and movies are now available on streaming services. Most have a good selection of international programming too. Here are the most popular Norwegian and Nordic streaming services.

NRK

Norway’s public broadcaster streams live channels and a large on-demand library in the .

Logging in is optional and free; availability windows for some shows can be short due to rights. If you verify residence, you can also stream when travelling in the EEA.

TV2 Play

TV2’s online service carries Norwegian news/entertainment and premium sport. For domestic football and European competitions you’ll generally need TV2 Play Premium (with or without ads).

Typical prices for Premium are in the ~389–449 kr/mth range (ads vs. ad-free), and bundles via TV providers can differ. For football, TV2 currently holds UEFA Champions League (men) rights through 2026/27 and the Norwegian Eliteserien rights through 2027/28. 

Tip: TV/ISP bundles (Altibox/Telia) often resell TV 2 Play with their own pricing. Check your provider’s page before subscribing direct.

Viaplay

General entertainment plus a large sports portfolio. Plans range from Film & Serier (169 kr/mth) up to sports tiers (Medium 399 kr/mth; Medium Pluss 529 kr/mth; Total 699 kr/mth).

Viaplay holds the rights to show the English Premier League in Norway until 2028; Premier League access requires the Total sports tier.

At the time of writing, an ad-supported “Film & Serier med reklame� (film and series with advertising) option is offered at a lower price, saving 60 kroner per month.

Discovery+

Streams Discovery-owned channels and on-demand shows. Sports distribution has been changing across Europe; Eurosport Player/Premium was shut down in 2024, with sports directed to Discovery+ or Max with Sport, depending on market and plan.

In Norway, the Max route is increasingly the combined destination for Eurosport-branded sports. 

Strim (aggregator)

A Norwegian “all-in-one� streaming/TV bundle that combines linear channels and apps (e.g., TV 2 Play, Viaplay, SkyShowtime). packages change often and can be cost-effective versus buying everything à la carte; current packages typically span ~399–1398 kr/mth depending on channels and add-ons.

Pluto TV (free, ad-supported “FAST� TV)

Launched in Norway in 2022; offers dozens of live, themed channels and an on-demand selection at no cost. Great for background TV and older series/films.

International Streaming Services

Of course, Norwegians are also able to access some of the biggest names in global streaming. However, be warned that the catalogue of available content often differs from what is available in the UK, the US, or elsewhere.

Netflix

The most globally successful streaming service to date, Netflix is extremely popular in Norway. There have been more Norwegian language productions added in recent years, including the Norwegian monster movie Troll.

Aside from that, there is an outstanding selection of international movies and TV series. Highlights include Squid Game, Wednesday, Love Death + Robots; Black Rabbit, and House of Guinness.

A Netflix subscription varies from 79kr-129kr per month depending on the quality level and multi-screen capabilities that you desire.

Disney+

Disney’s streaming service combines its famous back-catalogue with a growing slate of originals.

Recent highlights include Eyes of Wakanda, Doctor Who, Ironheart, Alien: Earth, and Andor season 2, alongside the full worlds of Marvel, Star Wars, Pixar, Disney classics, National Geographic, and the broader Star collection.

In Norway, plans start from 59 kr/mth for Standard with ads, 89 kr/mth for ad-free Standard, and 139 kr/mth for Premium with 4K and Dolby Atmos. Annual subscriptions lower the effective monthly cost.

HBO Max

Formerly HBO Nordic and MAX, HBO Max is now the pan-Nordic home for HBO originals and much more. Highlights include Station Eleven, The Leftovers, Gilded Age, The Last of Us, and White Lotus.

In Norway, plans start from 89 kr/mth with optional 50 kr/mth Sport add-on (Eurosport content like cycling/tennis and Olympic coverage moves here in Max markets).

Amazon Prime Video

Amazon’s well known platform mixes international originals with licensed shows and films. Even though there is no Amazon Norway store, residents of Norway can still buy access to Prime Video.

Highlights include the fantasy epic The Wheel of Time, the ensemble drama Nine Perfect Strangers, and new historical sagas such as House of David and Bloodaxe. The Spanish crime thriller Memento mori has also found a strong following.

In Norway it costs 79 kr/mth when purchased directly, and is sometimes bundled or discounted through providers such as Telia. Amazon has introduced ads by default in some countries, so check the Norwegian signup flow for current terms.

Apple TV+

Apple’s streaming service focuses entirely on original programming rather than a back-catalogue.

The lineup is smaller than rivals but highly curated, with acclaimed series such as Severance, The Morning Show, Ted Lasso and Masters of the Air. In Norway it costs 119 kr/mth after a 7-day trial, with three months free often included when you buy new Apple hardware.

SkyShowtime

Carries Paramount and Peacock originals/franchises. Norway now has three tiers: Standard with ads (59 kr/mth), Standard (99 kr/mth), Premium (139 kr/mth); annual options are cheaper.

YouTube / Google TV

Google has retired Play Movies & TV; in Norway you rent or buy films/TV chiefly through YouTube (also accessible via the Google TV app). Useful for one-off new releases without a subscription.

Streaming Sports Rights

• Premier League (2022–2028): Viaplay holds exclusive rights. Requires a Viaplay sports tier. 
• UEFA Champions League (through 2026/27): TV 2 holds rights; available via TV 2 Play Premium. 
• Eliteserien (through 2027/28): TV 2 holds rights; available via TV 2 Play (relevant package).
• If you mainly want cycling/tennis/wintersports and Olympics coverage, look at Max with the Sport add-on, which consolidates Eurosport content.

Travel & Geo-Rules

Norway follows the EU/EEA portability regulation, so when you travel temporarily inside the EEA, paid services you subscribe to in Norway must let you use them as if you were at home (subject to residence verification).

This is why NRK/others prompt you to log in before travelling. Regardless of whether you live in Norway or not, it's worth checking out a VPN to see how it can help you stream globally.

The post Streaming TV Services in Norway (Updated for 2025) appeared first on º£½ÇÖ±²¥.

Titled Scandinavia with Simon Reeve, the documentary series will air on BBC Two and iPlayer in the UK from 18 May, 2025.

It promises to go far beyond stereotypes of flat-pack furniture and fairy-tale landscapes to reveal the complexities and contradictions of this vast northern region.

Who is Simon Reeve?

For those unfamiliar with his work, Simon Reeve is a bestselling British travel author and television presenter known for combining adventurous journeys with in-depth reporting.

His previous BBC series have taken him from the jungles of the Congo to the shores of the Indian Ocean and across the world's last great wildernesses.

Reeve is admired for his immersive, boots-on-the-ground style of storytelling, where he often uncovers the political, social, and environmental realities behind postcard-perfect destinations. Now, he turns his attention to the Nordic countries.

A Journey Through the North

The new series follows Reeve as he travels from the far north of the Arctic to the southern shores of the Baltic, shining a light on one of Europe’s wealthiest and most progressive regions, and revealing some surprising truths along the way.

In the first episode, Reeve begins his journey on the remote Norwegian archipelago of Svalbard, known for its frozen wilderness and polar bears. From there, he heads south into Lapland, the icy region spanning northern Norway, Sweden, and Finland.

In this leg, he visits NATO’s longest land border with Russia, exploring how even Santa’s Village is preparing for possible conflict amid heightened regional tensions.

The second episode focuses on Norway’s iconic fjords, before Reeve crosses the North Atlantic to visit Iceland. Here, he explores a land shaped by both fire and ice.

It’s a place of stunning natural beauty and growing geopolitical importance, dubbed “the Kuwait of Europe� due to its energy resources, but also plagued by volcanic threats.

The final episode brings Reeve to Sweden and Denmark, nations often celebrated for their happiness, equality and quality of life.

However, the presenter delves deeper to reveal the “surprising and sometimes shocking� challenges facing these Scandinavian societies today, including political shifts, social inequality, and pressures from immigration.

More Than a Scenic Journey

According to the , the series will uncover “a hidden side to what has become one of the most important frontiers of Europe,� particularly in light of recent geopolitical changes such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the expansion of NATO in the north.

“I know we’ll find situations, people, landscapes and facts that make my jaw drop,� said Reeve. “Scandinavia is vast, rugged and one of the most beautiful regions on the planet. It’s much more than just candles, reliable cars and hygge.�

The three-part series is produced by The Garden (part of ITV Studios) for BBC Two and , and was commissioned by BBC News’ Long Form team as part of a wider commitment to thoughtful, issue-driven travel journalism.

Watch British TV in Norway: Watch British TV channels from Norway and beyond, and protect your privacy online.

While the initial broadcast is set for the UK, many of Reeve’s previous shows have been syndicated internationally or later released on platforms such as YouTube, so viewers outside the UK should keep an eye out for ways to watch.

The post New BBC Travel Series to Explore the Nordic Region appeared first on º£½ÇÖ±²¥.

Its gripping portrayal of courage, sacrifice, and resistance has struck a chord with viewers, catapulting this Norwegian-language war drama into the global spotlight.

The film tells the true story of Gunnar Sønsteby, Norway’s most decorated war hero, whose undercover efforts against the Nazi occupation changed the course of the resistance movement.

More than just a history lesson, ‘‘ delivers an emotionally charged narrative that resonates in today's world of shifting geopolitical tensions and renewed discussions about freedom and democracy.

The Real-Life Hero: Gunnar Sønsteby

Gunnar Fridtjof Thurmann Sønsteby, born in Rjukan in 1918, emerged as a central figure in Norway's resistance during World War II.

Operating under the codename ‘Number 24,' he led the Oslo Gang in numerous sabotage missions targeting Nazi infrastructure and supply chains. His intelligence, courage, and ability to evade capture made him a legend.

His exceptional bravery earned him the War Cross with three swords, making him the most highly decorated citizen in Norwegian history.

Sønsteby's story is well-known within Norway, but Number 24 introduces his remarkable life to a global audience, providing a fresh and emotionally powerful lens on the events of the occupation.

Speaking personally, I’ve learned so much more about World War II since moving to Norway, particularly from hearing familiar stories told from a new and personal perspective.

Films like this play a huge role in giving us a more rounded view of historical events, reminding us that history is not monolithic. It is made up of countless voices and experiences, many of which are only just beginning to be heard internationally.

A Dual Narrative: Past and Present

Directed by John Andreas Andersen, ‘Number 24' employs a dual narrative structure.

The main storyline follows the young Sønsteby during the height of the war, while a parallel plotline features an elderly Sønsteby reflecting on his past as he speaks to a group of Norwegian schoolchildren.

Interested in war history? Check out our video about over on YouTube.

This clever storytelling technique helps to contextualise the historical events while inviting viewers to consider how the past shapes national identity and memory.

The framing device of the classroom is particularly moving, reinforcing the idea that history must be remembered and passed on. It also allows the film to engage directly with modern audiences, drawing parallels between past and present struggles for freedom and justice.

A Cast Worth Watching

The film features a talented ensemble cast that brings the true story to life with emotional depth and authenticity:

Sjur Vatne Brean stars as the young Gunnar Sønsteby. Known for his work in ¸éÃ¥»å±ğ²ú²¹²Ô°ì, Brean captures the character’s intelligence, moral conflict, and quiet strength.

His understated performance grounds the film, giving audiences an emotionally accessible window into Sønsteby’s transformation from student to saboteur.

Erik Hivju, the older brother of Kristofer Hivju (Game of Thrones), plays the elder Sønsteby. With a quiet but commanding presence, Hivju delivers reflective monologues that deepen the film’s resonance, especially in scenes where past and present collide.

Lisa Loven Kongsli plays Gudrun Collett, a fictionalised composite of several women in the resistance. Through her portrayal, the film highlights the often-overlooked but critical role of women in wartime Norway—managing logistics, gathering intelligence, and risking their lives in silence.

Kongsli, known for Force Majeure and Wonder Woman, brings both warmth and grit to the role.

August Wittgenstein portrays Siegfried Fehmer, the feared Gestapo officer who pursued the Oslo Gang. Wittgenstein plays the antagonist with chilling precision, yet avoids caricature, adding nuance to the film’s exploration of duty, power, and ideology.

Among the supporting cast, Ingrid Giæver deserves special mention for her role as Ingrid, a resistance courier whose brief but impactful scenes offer a glimpse into the personal costs of rebellion. Jakob Oftebro, appearing in a cameo as a captured resistance fighter, also leaves a mark with a quietly devastating performance that reinforces the stakes of the Oslo Gang’s mission.

Together, the ensemble enhances the story's emotional breadth, reminding viewers that while Sønsteby’s story is extraordinary, he was far from alone in his courage.

A Visual and Emotional Triumph

Shot on 35mm film, Number 24 stands out for its commitment to visual authenticity. The muted tones and period-accurate production design pull viewers into the era.

Cinematographer John Christian Rosenlund’s camera work is striking yet unobtrusive, allowing the emotional performances to take centre stage.

The score, composed by Gaute Storaas, blends traditional orchestration with subtle electronic elements, reflecting the tension and uncertainty of wartime life.

Critical and Audience Acclaim

‘Number 24' received a 100% rating on shortly after release, and quickly climbed to the top of Netflix’s global non-English charts, surpassing 8.8 million views in its first week.

Critics have praised the film’s emotional power, nuanced writing, and the decision to foreground a lesser-known but important WWII story.

Audiences have responded positively to the film’s fresh perspective on the war genre, noting that the focus on intelligence and resistance—rather than large-scale battles—offers a more intimate and thought-provoking experience.

Why It Matters Today

The story of ‘Number 24' resonates far beyond Norway’s borders. At a time when democracy and truth are under threat in many parts of the world, Sønsteby’s courage and sense of duty offer timely inspiration.

Producer Espen Horn has noted that the film’s themes of standing up to oppression and the moral ambiguity of war have struck a chord with international audiences. By emphasising personal sacrifice and civic duty, the film encourages viewers to reflect on their own values and responsibilities.

For anyone interested in history, resistance movements, or simply powerful human drama, Number 24 is an unmissable film that deserves all the acclaim it’s receiving.

The post Why Everyone Is Raving About Norway’s ‘Number 24’ on Netflix appeared first on º£½ÇÖ±²¥.

Directed by Benjamin Ree (The Painter and the Thief), this film shares the remarkable story of Mats Steen, a young Norwegian gamer who passed away at just 25 years old from Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Yet in his short life, Mats created a profound and lasting impact through his digital presence in the online role-playing arena, World of Warcraft (WoW).

Having only recently watched the film, I was delighted to discover for the Documentary Feature FIlm category at the Oscars. Even if it doesn’t make the final cut of Oscar nominations, it’s a great achievement nevertheless.

A Life Beyond the Screen

For much of Mats Steen’s life, his parents saw his gaming as an isolating experience. They believed his time spent in front of a screen was a substitute for real-life social interactions.

Mats, however, was living a parallel life as Ibelin Redwood â€“ his charismatic, red-haired avatar in WoW. When Mats passed away in 2014, his family was stunned to receive an outpouring of messages from friends all over the world who had known him as Ibelin.

To these friends, Mats was a source of kindness, humour, and wisdom. He was a hero, a friend, and someone who left a tangible mark on their lives.

Read more: Must-Watch Norwegian TV Series

This revelation transformed the way Mats’ family saw him. Where they had once perceived loneliness, they now saw a community. Where they imagined isolation, there was connection.

“We cried and cried from an intense emotional joy that came from seeing what kind of a life Mats had in fact lived,� said his parents. “With real friends, sweethearts, people who cared so much that they would fly from another country to the funeral service of someone they had never met. That was powerful.�

This discovery is at the heart of The Remarkable Life of Ibelin: the power of human bonds, no matter how they are formed.

Animation: A Powerful Storytelling Tool

What sets this documentary apart is its use of animation. Rather than relying solely on traditional home video footage, Ree and his team bring Mats’ virtual life to the screen by recreating scenes within World of Warcraft.

These animated sequences allow viewers to step into the world where Mats truly lived. We see Ibelin embark on adventures, form friendships, and experience life in a way that transcended his physical limitations.

The visuals are immersive and respectful, offering a powerful alternative to the grainy home videos often used in documentaries. It’s more real than you may think, as it’s all based on transcripts and records from the WoW archives. It is the life that Mats lived.

As a viewer, the animated world provides an emotional connection to Mats' digital experiences. It’s not just about watching a life lived online. It helps the viewer understand how that life brought him joy, purpose, and relationships that mattered deeply.

As Mats once wrote on his blog, “It’s not a screen. It’s a gateway to wherever your heart desires.�

A Broader Message: The Internet as Community

In today’s world, the internet is often criticised for fostering isolation, disconnection, and toxicity. The Remarkable Life of Ibelin challenges this narrative.

Through Mats’ story, we are reminded that the online world can be a place of deep human connection, where people find acceptance, friendship, and purpose.

Mats’ online relationships were no less real than face-to-face friendships. In many ways, they allowed him to be his truest self: kind, empathetic, and free.

For those unfamiliar with gaming culture, the film also serves as a bridge of understanding. It showcases how games like World of Warcraft offer more than escapism; they provide spaces for community, creativity, and emotional support.

A Universal Story of Impact and Legacy

The film’s greatest strength is its emotional resonance. Mats’ story speaks to something universal: the desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

Whether through small acts of kindness or deep, lasting friendships, we all have the power to leave a mark.

Mats may not have been able to travel the world, but through WoW, he touched lives across continents. As one of his friends said at his funeral: “Thank you for making a difference.� It’s a sentiment we all hope to hear one day.

Why You Should Watch Ibelin

If you’re looking for a documentary that will move you to tears and leave you reflecting on the nature of human connection, The Remarkable Life of Ibelin is a must-watch.

For those of us living in the digital age, Mats’ story serves as both a reminder and an inspiration: connection is always possible, no matter the boundaries of geography, physicality, or perception.

The combination of heartfelt interviews, Mats’ own words from his blog, and the stunning animation creates a lasting tribute to a young man who lived life fully, even within the limits of his condition.

The post Why You Must Watch ‘The Remarkable Life of Ibelin’ appeared first on º£½ÇÖ±²¥.