Marius Holst's Norwegian film Mirush (Blodsbånd) supported by Nordisk Film & TV Fond, has just won the top award at the 56th Mannheim-Heidelberg Film Festival in Germany, which ended on October 21.
The jury issued the following statement: "The directness of this film evokes a definite feeling of inadvertent admiration in the jury. This impression is reinforced by the performance of the young actor who works in the film like an angel of death and yet as an expression of life." Mirush was produced by Gudny Hummelvoll for 4½ Production.
Daniel Espinosa's Danish film Outside Love also supported by Nordisk Film & TV Fond was the co-winner of the Audience Award and the recipient of the Ecumenical Film Prize. The jury said: "In this love story between a Jew and a Muslim, Daniel Espinosa issues the never ending conflict between two cultures. With sensitive images and expressive interpretations, the film shows how hostility can be overwhelmed: through mutual recognising and empathy, trust, courage and love." The film produced by Thura Film was also one of four titles recommended by a jury of German Cinema Owners.
Both Mirush and Outside Love are sold by Nordisk Film International Sales.