Cast
View AllOdd-Magnus Williamson
as Kasper Berntsen
Sara Khorami
as Maria
Øystein Martinsen
as Erik Elisabeth
Karoline Krüger
as Andrea
Ebba Steenstrup Såheim
as Nina
Ylva Bjørkaas Thedin
as Anja
Anne Marie Ottersen
as Sara
Andrine Sæther
as Assistant
Ane Skumsvoll
as Selma
Penda Faal
as Monica
Dag Håvard Engebråten
as Ingar
Lockman Myran
as Khalid
Eivind Ellevssønn Cocozza
as Ronald
Atle Haglund
as Sebastian
Ravdeep Singh Bajwa
as Doctor 1
Crew
Director
- Petter Næss
Writer
- Odd-Magnus Williamson
Producer
- Eléonore Anselme
- Gudny Hummelvoll
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Nothing to Laugh About 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 Petter Næss 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 2021, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Nothing to Laugh About took approximately 17 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 107 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 163 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 450 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2021, when this film is released:
- Artificial intelligence was becoming increasingly integrated into daily life and creative industries.
- The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Nothing to Laugh About shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Chad Daniels: Empty Nester, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Nothing to Laugh About subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Gary Gulman: Boyish Man and The Barbarian Invasions explore similar territory, Nothing to Laugh About stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: September 10, 2021
- Runtime: 1h 47m