Norwegian filmmaker Dag Johan Haugerud has wrapped up his trilogy with "Dreams (Sex Love)," which is making its debut in the main competition at the Berlinale. The earlier films in the series, "Sex" and "Love," were showcased in the Berlinale’s Panorama and the Venice Film Festival. Sales for the film are managed by M-Appeal.
Reflecting on his journey, Haugerud jokingly expressed, "It’s quite a relief that it’s finally over. The filming of these three movies was relatively straightforward; however, releasing them in quick succession presented its own challenges." He noted that the story was not initially intended to culminate with "Dreams."
"In Norway, the order of the films is ‘Sex,’ ‘Dreams,’ and finally, ‘Love,’ with ‘Love’ serving as the closing chapter," Haugerud explained.
"I found it fascinating to first explore a couple in a long-term relationship, then to revisit the magic of first love, and ultimately to discuss the essence of love, highlighting its components of care and responsibility alongside romance. Interestingly, both ‘Sex’ and ‘Dreams’ conclude with characters heading toward the city hall in Oslo, while ‘Love’ is centered around that very location. However, the films are being distributed in different sequences across various countries. For instance, in Italy, they are released as ‘Dreams,’ followed by ‘Love,’ and then ‘Sex.’"
In "Dreams," the narrative centers around the awkwardness of first love as 17-year-old Johanne (played by Ella Øverbye) finds herself infatuated with her teacher, Johanna (portrayed by Selome Emnetu).
"It all started with Ella. I was eager to craft a role specifically for her," Haugerud recalled, highlighting the duo’s previous collaboration on the award-winning film "Beware of Children" at the Göteborg Film Festival.
He shared, "The storyline revolves around first love and innocence, which reminded me of my own initial experience of love that consumed my thoughts completely. Although we never entered into a relationship, the memories remain surprisingly positive."
Haugerud aims to evoke the feelings associated with being engulfed by such emotions.
"There’s a profound change where you hardly recognize yourself anymore. Although it’s impossible to relive those moments, the idea of experiencing them again does have an appealing allure," he noted.
In his trilogy, produced by Yngve Sæther and Hege Hauff Hvattum for Motlys, the complexities of falling in love or experiencing lust juxtapose with the challenges of sharing those feelings with others.
"When something remarkable happens, there’s a desire to share it with the world. However, when the characters attempt to do so, it doesn’t always lead to a positive experience. It can detract from the purity of the moment, almost diminishing its beauty," he elaborated.
Johanne opts to express her feelings about her crush through writing, leading her mother and grandmother to encourage her to publish the book. This decision prompts them to reflect on their own life choices.
"Initially, it was a personal endeavor for her because the emotions were so potent. By sharing it with others, she inadvertently opens up conversations. As a parental figure, it’s natural to respond with concern upon hearing her thoughts. Yet, through reading, one can contemplate these topics more deeply," he remarked.
"The protagonist mirrors her grandmother’s life, living vicariously through her words. Yet, this can sometimes create a disconnect from real experiences. I recall reading about a writer who, after penning numerous novels, attempted to truly live, only to find it didn’t work out at all."
Creators, too, experience life through their characters.
"It may not be reality, yet there’s a semblance of truth to it. Perhaps I’m trying to convey the message: ‘If you encounter someone special, take a leap of faith,’" he emphasized, portraying his characters with compassion and understanding, regardless of their emotional turmoil.
"This theme resonates throughout the trilogy, and audiences have reacted similarly, be it in Norway or abroad. Clearly, there’s a universal need for kindness. Offering kindness creates a win-win situation for all involved."
