MIPCOM Spotlight: Nordic World

CANNES: In Nordic World’s The Stream, new artists are discovered and created in a way that replicates the workings of today’s music industry.

Throughout the competition, the songs performed are released on the digital platform Spotify. Another company format highlight, Cash Out, sees ordinary people being given a helping hand to achieve their ambitions, though it may require them to sell off precious belongings. Two comedians come to the aid of small companies struggling to stay afloat in To the Rescue. “All three shows tackle issues that are not only universal in their appeal but are also universally relevant,” says Paulina Eklund, the VP of sales for the Nordics, North America, LatAm and Africa at Nordic World. “They’re fun in the moment, but they also give viewers a lasting gift in the form of new information, new skills or a new way of looking at life’s challenges.”

“We strongly believe in ‘entertainment with a purpose,’” says Eklund.

The Norwegian dark comedy Maniac has already piqued the interest of the U.S. market, with an English-language remake launching on Netflix next year with Emma Stone and Jonah Hill in lead roles. Both Small Town Love and Next Summer are also in development in the U.S., and Nordic World has placed all three titles at the top of its MIPCOM slate.

“A new wave of Nordic drama has now arrived, which blends drama and comedy with beautifully crafted plots and memorable characters,” says Ann Christin Siljan, the VP of acquisitions at Nordic World. “Maniac, Small Town Love and Next Summer not only deal with universal themes—mental health, family, relationships—in a funny and affectionate way, but they do so realistically, honestly and simply in a way that I think is uniquely Nordic.”

She adds, “We are expanding our focus on both Nordic and international drama, and are seeking to invest in European co-productions.”