{"id":70758,"date":"2026-08-18T10:02:00","date_gmt":"2026-08-18T10:02:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/riff.is\/?p=70758"},"modified":"2026-08-26T11:32:22","modified_gmt":"2026-08-26T11:32:22","slug":"verk-i-vinnslu-2026-valin-verkefni","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/riff.is\/en\/verk-i-vinnslu-2026-valin-verkefni\/","title":{"rendered":"RIFF WORK IN PROGRESS (WIP) 2026 - SELECTED PROJECTS"},"content":{"rendered":"

Work in Progress<\/strong> is RIFF Industry Days' showcase for films in active development, production or post-production, connecting filmmakers with international co-production partners, financiers, sales agents and distributors. This year's selection brings together ten Nordic and international projects \u2014 documentaries and fiction features spanning Iceland, the Faroe Islands, Finland, Portugal, Poland, Denmark, Sweden, Spain, Canada, Estonia and Italy \u2014 at stages ranging from early development through to post-production. RIFF Industry Days is proud to present the ten projects selected for this year's WIP showcase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For all enquiries regarding the projects, please contact industry@riff.is<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Dark Ocean<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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Project title (original language):<\/strong> Hafi\u00f0 Er Svart<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Project stage:<\/strong> Development<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Country \/ co-production countries:<\/strong> Iceland, Canada<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Genre:<\/strong> Drama<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Estimated length:<\/strong> 02:00<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Synopsis
<\/strong>On his first voyage aboard an Icelandic fishing trawler, young deckhand H\u00e1kon enters a closed world shaped by silence, loyalty, and relentless labour. As isolation and hardship forge unexpected bonds, he is drawn into a culture where belonging demands emotional sacrifice, forcing him to choose between becoming one of the men or holding on to himself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Director biography\/filmography<\/strong>
Baldvin Z is an award-winning Icelandic writer, director, and producer whose films and television series have reached audiences worldwide. His acclaimed features include Jitters<\/em> (2010), Vonarstr\u00e6ti<\/em> (Life in a Fishbowl<\/em>, 2014) og Let Me Fall<\/em> (Let Me Fall,<\/em>2018), the latter two premiering at the Toronto International Film Festival.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His work has received more than 40 international awards and 22 Edda Awards, Iceland's highest film and television honours. Alongside his feature films, Baldvin has created and directed internationally successful series including Black Sands<\/em>, Case<\/em> and  The Journey<\/em>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

His films explore identity, human relationships, and the emotional consequences of social systems through an intimate, character-driven style. Dark Ocean<\/em> marks a new chapter in his filmmaking, combining his deeply personal connection to Iceland's fishing culture with a bold exploration of masculinity, belonging, and emotional silence.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Producer biography\/filmography<\/strong>
Arnbj\u00f6rg Hafli\u00f0ad\u00f3ttir (Abby) is one of Iceland's most experienced producers, with a career spanning more than two decades. Since entering the film and television industry in 2002, she has produced over 160 episodes across 27 television series, as well as television movies and feature films for both Icelandic and international audiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Her productions have earned dozens of awards and nominations in Iceland and abroad, including multiple Edda Awards from the Icelandic Film and Television Academy.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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\u00c6vi\u00e1grip \/ kvikmyndaskr\u00e1 framlei\u00f0anda<\/strong>
Gu\u00f0geir Arngr\u00edmsson is an Icelandic film and TV producer known for emotionally resonant, visually compelling storytelling. He launched his career with Albatross<\/em> (2015), a crowd-funded dramedy set in Iceland's Westfjords, directed by Sn\u00e6var S\u00f6lvason. The film's festival success established Gu\u00f0geir's reputation for managing productions in demanding settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

He re-teamed with S\u00f6lvason for From Iceland to Eden<\/em> (2019) and Odd Fish<\/em> (2024), the latter receiving nine Edda Award nominations. He is currently producing Avalanche<\/em>, a large-scale climate-disaster series from Glassriver and Whatevergroup, commissioned by S\u00edminn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With a focus on character-driven narratives and international collaboration, Gu\u00f0geir is helping shape the future of Icelandic cinema.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Director's statement<\/strong>
Growing up surrounded by fishermen, I became fascinated by the emotional silence that shaped generations of men at sea. Dark Ocean<\/em> explores how masculinity is learned through belonging rather than choice. My intention is not to judge these men, but to understand them. Through an intimate, immersive approach, I want audiences to experience both the brutality and the humanity of a world where survival often comes at the cost of vulnerability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Total budget:<\/strong> 644 080 500 ISK
Confirmed amount:<\/strong> 402 512 530 ISK
Required amount:<\/strong> 93 345 000 ISK<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Looking for:<\/strong>
Our main goal is to connect with sales agents, distributors and potential financing partners, with a particular focus on Scandinavia. Dark Ocean<\/em> is currently 62.5% financed through Icelandic funding, with applications pending in Canada and Europe. Through the WIP Showcase, we aim to secure the remaining financing, including ISK 93,345,000\u201415% of the total budget\u2014through sales and distribution, while building strong partnerships for the film's international launch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n
  • Post-production partner<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Financing \/ grant support<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
    <\/div>\n\n\n\n

    Completion date:<\/strong> N\/A<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Production companies<\/strong>
    Glass River
    Terminal Pictures<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    <\/div>\n\n\n\n

    COMMUNITY<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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    Project title (original language): <\/strong>COMMUNITY<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Project stage: <\/strong>Development <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Country \/ co-production countries: <\/strong>Poland, Iceland<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Genre: <\/strong>Documentary feature<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Estimated length: <\/strong>01:11<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

    Synopsis<\/strong>
    As sheep disappear from Icelandic fields - tourists multiply. Through the eyes of a 'heimalningur', we see a rural community in between tradition and survival. Across Iceland, sheep farms are quietly transforming into guesthouses and restaurants, trying to survive on an unstable tourism economy, as the country's landscape and Icelanders identity seem to be irreversibly transformed by the industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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    Director biography\/filmography
    <\/strong>Szymon Radzio is a Polish director, screenwriter and production manager of short films. Graduate of the \u0141\u00f3d\u017a Film School. He works at the Mazovia Warsaw Film Commission, Mazovia Warsaw Film Fund.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Participant of: KIPA Film Production Accelerator 2025; 15th Warsaw Next workshops during the 41st Warsaw Film Festival; Young Talents programme at the Young Horizons International Film Festival 2024. Recipient of the Villa Decius Institute of Culture screenwriting scholarship in 2024, and the Marshal of the Podkarpackie Voivodeship creative scholarship in 2022. Member of the Polish Filmmakers Association.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    He is known for Perseidae<\/em> (2026), A Few Blocks Away<\/em> hortlisted in TOP15 of the Nespresso Talents 2021 'Doing is Everything' Competition and Rosebud<\/em> (2021)\u2014awarded in the Polish Film Competition Nakr\u0119\u0107 si\u0119!<\/em> 2022.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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    Producer biography\/filmography<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Katarzyna Stasie\u0142uk is a Polish producer who graduated from the Film School in \u0141\u00f3d\u017a and the University of Gda\u0144sk, specializing in film production and film studies. She has worked with leading Polish film institutions and companies, contributing to acclaimed short films including Dead Marriage<\/em> and  Crocodile<\/em> which premiered in the Semaine de la Critique at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

    <\/div>\n\n\n\n
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    Producer biography\/filmography<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Gu\u00f0n\u00fd Gu\u00f0j\u00f3nsd\u00f3ttir is an Icelandic producer and Head of Finance at Kontent, specializing in project financing, budgeting, and financial management for film and television productions. She also leads the company's production team, overseeing the development and delivery of documentaries and original content for TV and cinema.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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    Producer biography\/filmography<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Sara D. Baldursd\u00f3ttir has a background in business, finance and art. She has worked in finance, accounting and management as well as film and television production in recent years. Sara has extensive experience in sales, marketing and production development and specializes in creating marketing materials and pitch decks for film and TV projects.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

    <\/div>\n\n\n\n

    Director's statement<\/strong>
    To depict the process of Icelandic society, tradition and landscape transforming, we follow the story of Fanny and Sverrir. From the POV of sheep raised by farmers we observe tourism leaving a mark on Icelandic culture. This aims to show the perspective on relationships between human beings through the eyes of an animal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Total budget:<\/strong> 244 000 EUR
    Confirmed amount:<\/strong> 12 000 EUR
    Required amount:<\/strong> 232 000 EUR<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Looking for:<\/strong>
    We are looking for collaborators who can support the film through financing, festival strategy and international distribution with focus on: Iceland as the territory, main location of the story and of the film as a project, as well as its topic. Poland as the country of origin of the main creators and other Nordic countries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      \n
    • Majority co-producer<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Minority co-producer<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Financing \/ grant support<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
      <\/div>\n\n\n\n

      Completion date:<\/strong> 2028<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Production companies<\/strong>
      HAKA Films
      Kontent Productions <\/p>\n\n\n\n

      <\/div>\n\n\n\n

      EIV\u00d8R<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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      Project title (original language):<\/strong> EIV\u00d8R<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Project stage:<\/strong> Development<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Country \/ co-production countries:<\/strong> Faroe Islands, Iceland<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Genre:<\/strong> Documentary<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Estimated length:<\/strong> 01:30<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

      Synopsis<\/strong>
      Born on a remote island, Faroe Island in the North Atlantic, where the ocean meets the sky and the wind never rests, Eiv\u00f8r grew up in a world shaped by raw nature, ancient echoes, and something almost magical. From this wild and distant place, a voice emerged\u2014powerful, haunting, and unlike anything heard before. This is an inspiring story of a girl from the far who dared to follow her own path.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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      Director biography\/filmography
      <\/strong>\u00c1g\u00fasta M. \u00d3lafsd\u00f3ttir is a writer and producer. A member of Vesturport, one of Europe's most innovative film, TV and theatre groups. Agusta has written, produced and directed documentaries that have won numerous international awards both in Europe and America as well as produced TV series and feature films.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Her latest project is the TV series Vigd\u00eds<\/em>, a 4 part drama series about the first female president in the world. Agusta wrote, produced and was the showrunner<\/em> of the series, working closely with the directors and head of departments.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

      <\/div>\n\n\n\n
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      Producer biography\/filmography<\/strong>
      <\/strong>Rakel Gar\u00f0arsd\u00f3ttir is the MD and producer of the award-winning and critically acclaimed company Vesturport. With her company, she has produced a vast range of films, documentaries, and TV episodes, which have accumulated dozens of film and television awards, both international and domestic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      She has also produced many theatre productions worldwide, from Siberia to London's West End, from New York and Washington to Toronto, Canada.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      In addition, Rakel was honored with the order of the Falcon from the president of Iceland for her work towards the environment and sustainable world, which is the highest honor that the Icelandic state can bestow on individuals.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

      <\/div>\n\n\n\n

      Director's statement<\/strong>
      <\/strong>Eiv\u00f8r grew up as my island neighbour, just across the North Atlantic from my home, Iceland. Growing up in the North, I have always felt a deep connection to artists shaped by nature and isolation. I have followed Eiv\u00f8r since her teenage years, recognizing early on a rare authenticity in her voice and vision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Seeing her perform for the first time was an almost supernatural experience of power, presence, and emotional depth. This film is driven by a desire to understand that connection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Total budget:<\/strong> 250 000 EUR
      Confirmed amount:<\/strong> 100 000 EUR
      Required amount:<\/strong> 150 000 EUR<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Looking for:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

        \n
      • Co-Producer (Faroe Island \/ Denmark)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Sales Agent<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Distributor<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Pre-sale<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
        <\/div>\n\n\n\n

        Completion date:<\/strong> N\/A<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Production companies<\/strong>
        Vesturport<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        <\/div>\n\n\n\n

         Capricorn Syndrome<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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        Project title (original language):<\/strong> S\u00edndrome de Capric\u00f3rnio<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Project stage:<\/strong> Development <\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Country \/ co-production countries:<\/strong> Portugal, Finland<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Genre:<\/strong> Absurdist, Psychological Drama<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Estimated length:<\/strong> 01:40<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

        Synopsis<\/strong>
        Pedro arrives at a remote clinic in Finland, referred by a Portuguese doctor, seeking help for a mysterious syndrome. Known as Capricorn Syndrome<\/em>\u00a0 this condition inexplicably affects only people born between late December and early January. At the clinic, Pedro is placed into a rigid routine, following strict rules and subjected to unconventional methods that force him to confront his fears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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        Director biography\/filmography<\/strong>
        <\/strong>Miguel Munh\u00e1 holds a degree in Art and Multimedia from the Faculty of Fine Arts of the University of Lisbon, an MA in Film Directing from the Lisbon Theatre and Film School, and an MA in Cinematography from ESCAC (University of Barcelona). He also studied at the University of Hertfordshire (UK) and completed an Inov-Art internship at Prodigo Films (Brazil).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Working as a director, producer and cinematographer, his films have screened internationally. His documentary Nunca as minhas m\u00e3os ficam vazias<\/em> premiered at IndieLisboa and was acquired by Tate Modern. His fiction short Hei-de morrer onde nasci<\/em> screened at festivals across three continents, while P\u00e1ssaro Azul<\/em>, supported by the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation and ICA, premiered at the Warsaw Film Festival (Poland) and screened at the Beijing International Short Film Festival (China), In The Palace (Bulgaria) and Entre Olhares (Portugal).<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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        Producer biography\/filmography<\/strong>
        <\/strong>Ana Sofia Nunes is a Portuguese producer working across film, television and cultural projects. She holds a BA in Communication Design from the Faculty of Fine Arts, University of Lisbon, and an MA in Arts and Heritage from Maastricht University.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        In 2020 she co-founded J\u00e2ngal Studios after several years as Production Manager at DuplaCena. Since then, she has produced audiovisual and cultural projects. Her recent credits include the shorts P\u00e1ssaro Azul<\/em>(Warsaw Film Festival) and Era uma vez uma vez no apocalipse<\/em> (Tribeca Lisbon).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Most recently, she was selected for Match Me!, Locarno Pro's international networking programme, and will take part in its 2026 edition. She is currently producing Suggia<\/em> by Adriana Romero and  Capricorn Syndrome<\/em> by Miguel Munh\u00e1.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

        <\/div>\n\n\n\n

        Director's statement
        <\/strong> Capricorn Syndrome<\/em> explores mental illness, anxiety and personality disorders through a dystopian yet familiar world that mirrors today's growing polarisation, misinformation and emotional isolation. Drawing on my own experience with anxiety, the film combines minimalist storytelling with a hypnotic visual language inspired by Lanthimos, Bergman and Kubrick.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Set between Portugal and Finland, it reflects my personal connection to both countries and their shared emotional landscapes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Total budget:<\/strong> 1 600 000 EUR
        Confirmed amount:<\/strong> 25% (of total budget)
        Required amount:<\/strong> 75% (of total budget)<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Looking for:<\/strong>
        We are currently seeking additional co-production partners, strategic industry contacts and long-term collaborations that can support the film's production and international circulation. Beyond financing, we see RIFF as an ideal platform to receive feedback from experienced professionals, refine our positioning within the European market and expand our network across the Nordic region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          \n
        • Minority co-producer<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Post-production partner<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Financing \/ grant support<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
          <\/div>\n\n\n\n

          Completion date:<\/strong> N\/A<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Production companies<\/strong>
          J\u00e2ngal Studios
          David & Golias
          Films Films Films Oy<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          <\/div>\n\n\n\n

          Mermaid in the Sun<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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          Project title (original language):<\/strong> Sereia ao Sol<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Project stage:<\/strong> Development<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Country:<\/strong> Portugal<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Genre:<\/strong> Drama<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Estimated length:<\/strong> 01:40<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

          Synopsis<\/strong>
          An old family campsite on a northern coastal stretch is at risk of closing to make way for a luxury resort. The park relies on a mix of tourists from all over Europe\u2014including Spain, Italy, the Netherlands, and Iceland\u2014who are just passing through, living temporarily alongside Portuguese campers who return every year and are virtually residents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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          Director biography\/filmography<\/strong>
          Jorge Quintela graduated in Photography and Audiovisual in 2003 from the Escola Superior Art\u00edstica do Porto (Porto School of the Arts). He is a founding partner of the production company Bando \u00e0 Parte and works in Cinema as a Director and Director of Photography.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          As a director, he made his debut in 2010 with the fiction short film Ausstieg Ausstieg<\/em>, awarded an Honorable Mention in the Experimental Competition at Curtas Vila do Conde and screened at several international festivals. Other acclaimed works include: On the Road to Femina<\/em> (2010) and O amor \u00e9 a solu\u00e7\u00e3o para a falta de argumento<\/em> (2011).<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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          Producer biography\/filmography<\/strong>
          Rodrigo Areias graduated from Sound and Image at the School of Arts in Porto. He also did Film undergrad at NYU's Tisch School of Arts, the Eurodoc and the Venice Biennale College production training programs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Throughout his career, has developed creative works in the area of author cinema, video-art and videoclips. As a producer since 2001 has produced over 150 films and has won San Sebastian's Golden Shell, three Lions at Venice and a Locarno Leopard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          As a director has won over 50 awards, his films have been in several international film festivals, his last feature film The Worst Man in London<\/em>in London premiered at Rotterdam's Big Screen Competition, and his last documentary NOVA \u201978<\/em> premiered on the official selection of Locarno.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

          <\/div>\n\n\n\n

          Director's statement
          <\/em><\/strong>In my previous short film, Sobre El Cielo<\/em>, many elements from the realm of science fiction and the supernatural are already present but they never impose themselves as the narrative's core theme. In this film I intend to take an unequivocal approach to the cosmology of Portuguese reality through a dialogue between the sacred and the profane, reimagining pagan conceptions of Celtic origin devoted to goddesses\u2014conceptions that blended with Christian customs\u2014drawing on the legend of Melus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Total budget:<\/strong> N\/A
          Confirmed amount:<\/strong> N\/A
          Required amount:<\/strong> N\/A<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Looking for:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

            \n
          • Minority co-producer<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Financing \/ grant support<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
            <\/div>\n\n\n\n

            Completion date:<\/strong> N\/A<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Production companies<\/strong>
            Bando \u00e0 Parte<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            <\/div>\n\n\n\n

            Marathon Before Menopause<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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            Project title (original language):<\/strong> Rogastanz<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Project stage: <\/strong>Pre-production<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Country \/ co-production countries:<\/strong> Iceland, Denmark, Sweden, Spain<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Genre:<\/strong> Dramedy<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Estimated length:<\/strong> 01:46<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

            Synopsis<\/strong>
            In a desperate race against her biological clock, Sara, an outspoken middle-aged journalist, turns to a mysterious Danish tantra master in the hope of boosting her fertility. Their unexpected and passionate relation upends everything she thought she wanted, forcing her to choose between the future she planned and the life she never imagined she could have.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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            Director biography\/filmography<\/strong>
            Brynja Vald\u00eds G\u00edslad\u00f3ttir is an Icelandic director, actor, acting coach, and public speaker with nearly three decades of experience in film, theatre, television, and live performance. A graduate of the Iceland University of the Arts and the Icelandic Film School, she has directed and produced short films, documentaries, music videos, and commercials, with a particular focus on dramedies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            She has directed short films and a documentary short. Selected works include Lifi Kolaporti\u00f0<\/em> (2007, documentary short), L\u00edti\u00f0 land<\/em> (2007, short), Fj\u00f6lskylda<\/em> (2008, short), Einu sinni var…<\/em> (2009, short), Fr\u00ed \u00e1fylling<\/em> (2010, short) and Frume\u00f0li<\/em> (2023, short).<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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            Producer biography\/filmography<\/strong>
            J\u00fal\u00edus Kemp is an Icelandic producer and director whose career has spanned nearly four decades. After studying filmmaking at the West Surrey College of Art & Design in the UK, he co-founded Kisi (The Icelandic Film Company) in 1991. Since then, he has primarily worked as a producer, alongside directing feature films and short films.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for recognising emerging talent, backing first-time filmmakers, and supporting ambitious, unconventional stories. He has produced 19 feature films. Selected producing credits include The Icelandic Dream<\/em> (2000 dir. Robert Douglas), Let Me Fall<\/em> (2018, dir. Baldvin Z) and Odd Fish<\/em> (2024, dir. Sn\u00e6var S\u00f6lvason), as well as the international co-productions The Bothersome Man<\/em> (2006, co-producer, dir. Jens Lien) and Unknown Soldier<\/em> (2017, co-producer, dir. Aku Louhimies).<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

            <\/div>\n\n\n\n
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            Producer biography\/filmography<\/strong>
            A\u00f0alhei\u00f0ur Kristbj\u00f6rg Jensd\u00f3ttir Mathiesen is a producer. Before moving into film, she spent more than a decade working in business development, financing, management consulting, and strategic partnerships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            She is currently producing Marathon Before Menopause<\/em> while developing various film and television projects in Iceland. Alongside her business career, she co-founded art collectives and collaborated on a range of cultural initiatives.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            She holds an MSc in Diversity and Change Management, with a minor in Sustainable Business, from Copenhagen Business School.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

            <\/div>\n\n\n\n

            Director's statement<\/strong>
            <\/strong>I wanted to explore existential questions about identity, love, belonging, and what gives our lives meaning through the story of a woman in midlife, standing at a crossroads. Fertility and motherhood are part of Sara's journey, but they are not the only destination. For me, the film is about our longing for connection, the emotional cycles we struggle to break, and the hope that change is possible. I want the film to find humour in the messiness of being human, while letting other moments carry their own emotional weight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Total budget:<\/strong> 360 000 000 ISK
            Confirmed amount:<\/strong> 10 000 000 ISK
            Required amount:<\/strong> 350 000 000 ISK<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            Looking for:<\/strong>
            We are primarily seeking financing opportunities, sales agents, broadcasters and strategic industry partners to support the production and international distribution of Marathon Before Menopause (Rogastanz)<\/em>. While the project is already developing relationships with potential co-production partners, we are particularly interested in strengthening its financing structure and international market potential.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              \n
            • Executive producer<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Financing \/ grant support<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
              <\/div>\n\n\n\n

              Completion date:<\/strong> Q4 2028 \/ Early 2029<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Production companies<\/strong>
              Kisi Productions
              Asta Film
              Harmonica Films
              KABOGA FILMS<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              <\/div>\n\n\n\n

              Br\u00e6\u00f0slan | \u00deegar Fj\u00f6r\u00f0urinn Vaknar<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
              \"\"<\/figure>
              \n

              Project title (original language):<\/strong> Br\u00e6\u00f0slan | \u00deegar fj\u00f6r\u00f0urinn vaknar<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Project stage:<\/strong> Development, roughcut started<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Country:<\/strong> Iceland<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Genre:<\/strong> Documentary, music, community<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Estimated length:<\/strong> 01:05<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

              In a fjord inhabited by around ninety people, brothers Magni and Hei\u00f0ar open an old herring factory once a year, filling it with life and music. For one summer weekend, the population multiplies as visitors stream over the mountain road and the entire village comes together to make it happen.\n\nThe film follows the brothers and the community while also looking back at its history, exploring what life was like before Br\u00e6\u00f0slan came into being. The project also draws on archival material from 1965 to 1990, along with an extensive collection of photographs that offers a vivid picture of how the fjord has changed and how it looks today.\n\nAt its heart is a question the locals ask themselves: What happens if Br\u00e6\u00f0slan comes to an end, and what comes next? As the film unfolds, it searches for an answer.\n\nThis is a story about culture giving a small community a voice that can be heard far beyond the fjord, and about how important it is to nurture this kind of community life. One good idea can become the spark that keeps an entire village alive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              \"\"<\/figure>
              \n

              Director, producer bio\/filmography<\/strong>
              Sk\u00fali Andr\u00e9sson is a filmmaker, cinematographer, and editor. His work is characterized by a strong connection to people, place, and environment. In Br\u00e6\u00f0slan, Sk\u00fali returns to his childhood home in the Eastfjords, bringing a personal perspective and a deep understanding of the landscape, history, and people who live there.\n\nAs the film\u2019s writer, producer, and director, he shapes its visual language and emotional tone. He also oversees post-production, ensuring that the editing, soundscape, and overall tone remain true to the heart of the story.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

              <\/div>\n\n\n\n
              \"\"<\/figure>
              \n

              Producer biography\/filmography<\/strong>
              Producer bio\/filmography<\/strong>
              Olgeir P\u00e9tursson is a marketing director and producer based in Reykjav\u00edk. He grew up in Borgarfj\u00f6r\u00f0ur Eystri and has a personal connection to the community, landscape, and cultural life at the heart of the film.\n\nOlgeir brings a strategic vision to the project, along with expertise in brand development and an understanding of audiences, positioning the film as a local story with international resonance. With experience in promotional campaigns, collaborative projects, and public relations, he plays a key role in shaping the film\u2019s identity and raising its profile.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

              <\/div>\n\n\n\n

              Director's Statement<\/strong>
              Borgarfj\u00f6r\u00f0ur Eystri is my second home. It holds my childhood memories of summers spent with my grandparents. Br\u00e6\u00f0slan captures the moment when a quiet village and an old factory come alive with music and people, and the entire fjord awakens.\n\nThe visual language and soundscape will be in close dialogue with the people themselves, rather than focusing solely on the stage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Total budget:<\/strong> 20.500.000 ISK
              Confirmed amount:<\/strong> 4.000.000 ISK
              Required amount:<\/strong> 16 500 000 ISK<\/p>\n\n\n\n

              Looking for:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

                \n
              • Minority co-producer<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Funding to strengthen the team around the film<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Financing and grants for completion and post-production<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Connections with film festivals, sales agents and distributors<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

                Parts of the film have already been shot, and a rough cut is underway. Final shooting is scheduled for late July 2027, with completion planned for the winter of 2027\u20132028.\n\nScreening rights and access to R\u00daV archival material have been secured, and discussions are underway regarding the film\u2019s music.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                The goal is to promote the film and secure screenings at film festivals both in Iceland and internationally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                <\/div>\n\n\n\n

                Completion date:<\/strong> Winter 2027 to 2028<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                Production companies<\/strong>
                <\/strong>Heima Studios<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                <\/div>\n\n\n\n

                Couple of Strangers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
                \"\"<\/figure>
                \n

                Project title (original language):<\/strong> Naapuri<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                Project stage:<\/strong>Post-production<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                Country:<\/strong> Finland<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                Genre: <\/strong>Independent, Psychological Drama, Horror, Suspense<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                Estimated length:<\/strong> 01:30<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

                Synopsis<\/strong>
                Maria (35) jumps head first into a relationship with Jakob (36) after a heartbreak. Soon the new couple finds their dream home in a lovely neighborhood and decides to move in without a hesitation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                After a while, odd incidents start to occur and Maria is sure that their strange upstairs neighbor is behind it all. Slowly Maria starts to realise that her new spouse is not what he seemed to be.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                \"\"<\/figure>
                \n

                Director\/Producer biography\/filmography<\/strong>
                Olli Salmi is a screenwriter and director. Currently, Salmi is working on his debut feature film Couple of Strangers<\/em>, produced by Artesons. Salmi's second fiction feature film An Amateur<\/em>was pitched at the Finnish Film Affair in September 2025.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                Before pursuing his own career as a writer and director, Salmi had an established background as an assistant director for films and TV series. Salmi has also previously produced the short film On the Bus in Munich, which premiered at the Vera Film Festival in \u00c5land in March 2026.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

                Director's statement<\/strong>
                Our film is about a suffocating relationship. It's about an invisible, stifling hand that has a hold of you wherever you go disguised as love. The hand first breaks you and then lures you right back in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                What makes this film stand apart is the setting of events. The story, set in a cosy neighborhood of wooden houses, is not isolated or eerie at first. But as we witness the strange incidents unfolding the suspense grows and we start to feel more and more claustrophobic in the middle of a suburb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                Total budget:<\/strong> 350 000 EUR
                Confirmed amount:<\/strong> 100 000 EUR
                Required amount:<\/strong> 250 000 EUR<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                Looking for:<\/strong>
                We are looking for expertise in international distribution and festival connections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  \n
                • Minority co-producer<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Executive producer<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Post-production partner<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Financing \/ grant support<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Connections for festivals<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Major festival premier<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
                  <\/div>\n\n\n\n

                  Completion date:<\/strong> Spring 2028<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  Production companies<\/strong>
                  Artesons Oy<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  <\/div>\n\n\n\n

                  Just a Kid<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
                  \"\"<\/figure>
                  \n

                  Project title (original language): <\/strong>Bara barn<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  Project stage: <\/strong>Post-production<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  Country: <\/strong>Iceland, Estonia<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  Genre: <\/strong>Coming of Age, Drama<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  Estimated length: <\/strong>01:40<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

                  Synopsis<\/strong>
                  After moving from Norway to Iceland, 16-year-old J\u00fal\u00eda struggles to balance caring for her younger sister with fitting in at a new school. Drawn to charismatic Salka and the school newspaper, she begins to find her voice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  But when a traumatic drunken night resurfaces, J\u00fal\u00eda must confront shame, family responsibilities and the courage to tell her own story.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  \"\"<\/figure>
                  \n

                  Director biography\/filmography<\/strong>
                  Vala \u00d3marsd\u00f3ttir is an Icelandic filmmaker, director, and performance maker with master's degrees from Goldsmiths, University of London, and the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama. She has a Dipl\u00f3ma in Film directing and screenwriting from the Icelandic Film School Screenwriting workshop MIDPOINT and has completed a 2-year-program at the Broadway Dance Center, NYC for Performing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  Her credits for screenwriting and directing include: acclaimed short films SPRUNGUR\/FRACTURES (2021) and \u00c9G\/I (2018), which have each won and been nominated for several awards nationally and internationally.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

                  <\/div>\n\n\n\n
                  \"\"<\/figure>
                  \n

                  Producer biography\/filmography<\/strong>
                  Hl\u00edn Johannesdottir has worked in film production since the year 2000. She has worked with many of Iceland's most successful directors on feature films and documentaries as well as focusing on upcoming talent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  Hl\u00edn owns and runs the production company Ursus Parvus in Reykjavik, established in 2015. Her credits as a producer include Oh Grindavik<\/em> (2026), Just a Kid<\/em> Hl\u00edn owns and runs the production company Ursus Parvus in Reykjavik, established in 2015. Her credits as a producer include Oh Grindavik (2026), Just a Kid (2025) and four episodes of Everybody Loves Horses (2024). Everybody Loves Horses<\/em> (2024).<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

                  <\/div>\n\n\n\n

                  Director's statement<\/strong>
                  Bara barn<\/em> is an Icelandic coming-of-age film told through the eyes of a teenage girl navigating first love, desire, belonging, and the struggle to set boundaries. Set against the backdrop of a contemporary Reykjav\u00edk in the winter, the film captures the raw energy, uncertainty, and emotional intensity of adolescence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  It is both an ode to youth and a story of young people challenging the silence surrounding sexual violence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  Total budget:<\/strong> 208 000 000 ISK
                  Confirmed amount:<\/strong> N\/A
                  Required amount:<\/strong> N\/A<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  Looking for:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    \n
                  • Awareness and networking.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
                    <\/div>\n\n\n\n

                    Completion date:<\/strong> N\/A<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    Production companies<\/strong>
                    Ursus Parvus
                    Alexandra Film<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    <\/div>\n\n\n\n

                    Ghost Voices<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
                    \"\"<\/figure>
                    \n

                    Project title (original language): <\/strong>Ghost Voices<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    Project stage: <\/strong>Roughcut<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    Country: <\/strong>Portugal, Finland, Italy <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    Genre: <\/strong>Documentary<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    Estimated length: <\/strong>01:05<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

                    Synopsis <\/strong>
                    This documentary explores Europe's geographical and cultural peripheries through the voices of the people who inhabit them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    Moving through the edges of Europe, the film brings together a diversity of languages, songs, stories, and soundscapes to evoke a shared sonic identity, inviting us to reflect on notions of borders, belonging, and the ways in which we inhabit and imagine territory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    \"\"<\/figure>
                    \n

                    Director biography\/filmography<\/strong>
                    Rodrigo Areias graduated from Sound and Image at the School of Arts in Porto. He also did Film undergrad at NYU's Tisch School of Arts, the Eurodoc and the Venice Biennale College production training programs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    Throughout his career, has developed creative works in the area of author cinema, video-art and videoclips. As a producer since 2001 has produced over 150 films and has won San Sebastian's Golden Shell, three Lions at Venice and a Locarno Leopard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    As a director has won over 50 awards, his films have been in several international film festivals, his last feature film The Worst Man in London premiered at Rotterdam's Big Screen Competition, and his last documentary NOVA '78 premiered on the official selection of Locarno.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

                    <\/div>\n\n\n\n
                    \"\"<\/figure>
                    \n

                    Producer biography\/filmography<\/strong>
                    Joonas Bergh\u00e4ll is a Finnish film director, writer and producer. He has been involved in film making since 1998. Today he works in his own production company Oktober.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    Joonas has gained a reputation as a creative director and producer who invests in high-quality documentary and fiction films which have been screened in over a hundred film festivals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    He has proven to be one of the strongest documentary makers in Finland, from whom quality films year after year can be expected.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

                    <\/div>\n\n\n\n

                    Director's statement<\/strong>
                    N\/A<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    Total budget:<\/strong> 365 000 EUR
                    Confirmed amount:<\/strong> 275 000 EUR
                    Required amount:<\/strong> 90 000 EUR<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    Looking for:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

                      \n
                    • Financing<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                    • Grant Support<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                    • Sales Partner<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
                      <\/div>\n\n\n\n

                      Completion date:<\/strong> May 2027<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                      Production companies
                      <\/strong>Bando \u00e0 Parte
                      Oktober OY
                      Karel<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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