Cast
View All
Anders Danielsen Lie
as Anders
Malin Crépin
as Malin
Hans Olav Brenner
as Thomas
Ingrid Olava
as Rebecca
Tone Beate Mostraum
as Tove
Øystein Røger
as David
Aksel Thanke
as Terapeut
Kjærsti Odden Skjeldal
as Mirjam
Renate Reinsve
as Renate
Anders Borchgrevink
as Øystein
Petter Width Kristiansen
as Petter
Johanne Kjellevik Ledang
as Johanne
Iselin Steiro
as Iselin
Elin Gunnarsdotter Sandvik
as Folio-ansatt
Crew
Director
- Joachim Trier
Producer
- Hans-Jørgen Osnes
- Yngve Sæther
- Sigve Endresen
Reviews
CinemaSerf
Anders Danielsen Lie offers a really quite intense performance here as the recovering drug addict "Anders". His physicians think he's sufficiently improved to be able to spend a day, unsupervised, in Oslo, with family and friends and to have an interview for a job. Initially it all goes well. He drops in on "Thomas" (Hans Olav Brenner) and his family and is geared up (not literally) for his interview. That's where the wheels come off and we spend the rest of his day as he reminisces about the past, encounters some of those important to that past and gradually appears to be coming to terms with what he considers best for his future. Joachim Trier uses the gentle pacing of this drama to allow Lie to slowly demonstrate his character's sense of introspection and considered self-destruction. This isn't an ill-educated man who grew up in squalor or depravity, this is an erudite and engaging "Anders" who comes from a decent, loving, home that's not without it's ups and downs, but ought to have provided him with more of an emotional robustness that we are presented with here. There is a solid cast of supporting actors - Malin Crépin ("Malin") strong amongst them, as his brain appears to be putting his house in order. It's not an easy film to sit through. It's traumatic in a delicate and measured sort of way, and Lie delivers us a persona with whom it's easy enough to empathise and want to give a good shake to, too.
May 22, 2024
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Oslo, August 31st examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Joachim Trier brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2011, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Oslo, August 31st took approximately 11 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 94 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 154 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 3 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 10 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2011, when this film is released:
- Streaming services were revolutionizing film and television consumption.
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Oslo, August 31st shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Little Witch, which focuses more on action than character development, Oslo, August 31st subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Ero in guerra ma non lo sapevo and Murder on the Orient Express explore similar territory, Oslo, August 31st stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: August 31, 2011
- Runtime: 1h 34m
- Revenue: $1,481,665
Where to Watch
