Erik Poppe Begins Filming New Relationship Drama "Bad Moon Rising" in Norway
Renowned Norwegian filmmaker Erik Poppe, known for his acclaimed works such as Utoya: July 22, Quisling, and 1,000 Times Goodnight, has officially commenced filming his latest project, Bad Moon Rising (working title), in the stunning landscapes of Norway. This relationship drama is based on the original script by Jon Fosse, the 2023 Nobel Prize in Literature laureate.
Poppe expressed his excitement about collaborating with Fosse, stating, "Jon is a significant name in the U.S., Japan, and Europe. Working alongside him and my long-time producer, Finn Gjerdrum at Paradox, as well as SF Studios, is incredibly thrilling."
The narrative centers around Asle and Gerd, a couple in their thirties living with their son in a quaint coastal town in Western Norway. Initially, their relationship appears idyllic, but Asle, a sailor, begins to feel a sense of restlessness, drawn away by the allure of the sea. This yearning leaves Gerd to navigate the challenges of parenthood and solitude, causing cracks to form in their once-harmonious bond.
"I was taken aback when I first read Jon’s script," Poppe reflected. "It encapsulates Fosse’s signature style, yet it feels more open and inviting compared to his typical literary drama." He emphasized the challenge of "conveying the unsaid," capturing the moments of silence, fleeting glances, and pauses that often arise in close relationships.
The lead roles of Asle and Gerd are portrayed by rising stars Leo de la Nuez and Kristi-Helene Engberg. De la Nuez is known for his work in NRK’s romantic comedy For Evy & Always and HBO’s Beforeigners, while Engberg has appeared in Gunnar Vikene’s War Sailor. Poppe praised their talent, noting, "Although Leo and Kristi-Helene are relatively unknown, they possess immense potential. Their sensitive interpretation of Fosse’s worldview will resonate with audiences."
A vital aspect of Poppe’s vision for Bad Moon Rising is the breathtaking setting of the Hardangerfjord, the fifth longest fjord in the world, alongside the rugged beauty of Stadlandet in Western Norway. He described the landscape as "a character in itself," serving as a brutally beautiful backdrop for an intimate and universal story rather than just a picturesque setting.
The film is produced by Finn Gjerdrum for SF Studios’ Norwegian branch, Paradox, with support from the Norwegian Film Institute, Zefyr Media Fund, Film i Väst, Nordisk Film & TV Fond, and Storyline. SF Studios will release the film in 2026, while Reinvent International manages global sales.
Helene Aurø, the Sales and Marketing Director at Reinvent, expressed pride in representing Bad Moon Rising internationally, stating, "Erik Poppe is one of the most distinctive voices in Scandinavian cinema. This film highlights his artistic ambition and tells a powerful, globally relevant story that we believe will resonate with audiences worldwide."
Poppe’s previous film, Quisling – The Final Days, which explores the life of infamous Norwegian prime minister and Nazi collaborator Vidkun Quisling, was successfully sold to various territories, including the U.S., Canada, Benelux, and Australia.
Stay tuned for more updates on Bad Moon Rising, a film that promises to captivate audiences with its profound narrative and stunning visuals.
