The feature drama directed by Albatross’ Snævar Sölvason is being co-produced by Finland’s Solar Films and the Czech Republic’s Axman Production.

Odd Fish (Ljósvíkingar) reunites seasoned producers Júlíus Kemp and Ingvar Þórðarson with Sölvason after his comedy Albatross (2015) and action-packed youth film From Iceland to Ede, nominated for an Edda-best editing in 2020. “Ingvar and I like his work, he is a very talented filmmaker so we have intended to make Odd Fish with him and other projects in the future,” notes Kemp, credited most recently for Nanna Kristin Magnúsdóttir’s successful children’s film 12 Hours to Destruction.

The story about identity and accepting change, is set in a small community of Iceland’s northern Westfjords. Two childhood friends Björn and Hjalti, run a popular seafood restaurant in a fishing village where they were born and raised. The pair are total opposites: Hjalti is a confident family man and a big fish in town, Björn a reserved, single man who’s always lived in his parents’ house. While the pair suddenly get an opportunity to keep their fish restaurant going all year round, Björn comes out as a trans woman. Can his best friend overcome his prejudice and accept what truly matters in life?

Sölvason who was inspired by growing up in a similar small fishing town, has shared the writing credit with Veiga Grétarsdóttir, herself a trans woman who brings much warmth, humour and authenticity to the story.

Filming is currently underway, with Björn Jörundur (Trapped, Remote Control) and Arna Magnea Danks in the title roles.

Finland’s Solar Films who shares the credits to several features initiated or co-produced by Kemp and Þórðarson in the last two decades (from Reykjavik Whale Watching Massacre, Dark Floors, to The Grump) is co-producing alongside Prague-based Axman Production, partner to the Icelandic producers’ 2014 hit Life in a Fishbowl.

The film has received support from the Icelandic Film Centre, Icelandic tax rebates and Nordisk Film & TV Fond.

The national release is set for the spring 2024.