North American Premiere

25 year old Hans Nielsen Hauge (Odin Waage) experienced an encounter with God that changed both him and Norway. Through preaching, writing, and book publications, Hauge helped spread the word that spoke true to him. In line with his progressive teachings, he hired both what was considered the mentally and physically ill, and elected women as preachers and business leaders. Hauge preached in a time of dissidence with the state church, prompting persecution for him and all of his followers. Although an uphill climb to change Norway, Hauge and his followers left their impact deep in the stories of Norwegians and their forthcoming migrations.

Special introduction by Director Hisham Zaman 9.00-9.15.

In Hisham Zaman’s most recent feature film, A Happy Day, the landscape and mountains of Northern Norway prove to be a formidable obstacle to Hamid (Salah Qadi), Aras (Ravand Ali Taha), and Ismail (Mohamed Salah), three young friends longing to escape the asylum center for unaccompanied minors. On the cusp of adulthood and thus, deportation orders, the three friends come up with a plan to escape over the ongoing mountains. When newcomer Aida (Sarah Aman Mentzoni) begins a star-crossed romance with Hamid, the escape plan is jeopardized, commencing an unconventional portrayal of the hopes and dreams of these young asylum seekers. Although a story of their anxiety and despair, Hisham Zaman creates a celebration of their unique resilience in this world.

Lena (Risten Anine Kvernmo Gaup), an Oslo-based Sámi artist, returns to her Northern Norway hometown forced to confront a decision that has filled her with shame and regret. In the debut feature film from Director Sara Margrethe Oskal, The Tundra Within Me, explores the immense challenges facing Sámi reindeer herders today. In this captivating film, the audience is taken on a journey of identity to one’s heritage and traditions.