Hollywood actor Sebastian Stan and Norwegian star Renate Reinsve are set to headline Fjord, the latest film by acclaimed Romanian director Cristian Mungiu. The movie, a co-production involving Romania, France, Norway, Denmark, Finland, and Sweden, began filming in March 2025 in Norway’s scenic Møre & Romsdal region. It is slated for a 2026 release.
A Story of Cultural Clashes and Family Dynamics
Fjord centers on two neighboring families in a remote Norwegian village. One family is Romanian, with Mihai (played by Stan) as the father; the other is Swedish-Norwegian, with Lisbet (played by Reinsve) as the mother. Their children attend the same school, and initially, the families bond over shared experiences. However, differing views on parenting, education, and societal values soon lead to tension. The film delves into themes of cultural differences, personal freedom, and the limits of tolerance within a close-knit community.
Sebastian Stan’s Return to His Roots
Born in Romania, Sebastian Stan moved to the United States at a young age. Fjord marks his first Romanian-language film, allowing him to reconnect with his heritage. Stan expressed enthusiasm about working with Mungiu, stating, “I tried to find a project that would bring me back to Romania and exploit that personal history that I have. I’m excited to work with Cristian Mungiu and I hope everything ends well.”
Stan’s recent performances have garnered critical acclaim. He received a Golden Globe for his role in A Different Man and an Oscar nomination for The Apprentice. His collaboration with Reinsve in Fjord follows their previous work together in A Different Man.
Renate Reinsve’s Continued Rise
Renate Reinsve gained international recognition for her role in The Worst Person in the World, which earned her the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival. Her portrayal of complex characters has made her a sought-after talent in European cinema. In Fjord, Reinsve plays Lisbet, a Norwegian mother navigating the challenges of cultural integration and family dynamics.
Cristian Mungiu’s Vision
Director Cristian Mungiu is known for his thought-provoking films that explore societal issues. His previous works, such as 4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days, have received international acclaim. With Fjord, Mungiu continues to examine the complexities of human relationships and cultural conflicts. He describes the film as “a story about irreconcilable views of the world, about conformity, tolerance, and the limits of freedom and intimacy.”
International Collaboration and Production
Fjord is a collaborative effort among several European production companies, including Mobra Films (Romania), Why Not Productions (France), Eye Eye Pictures (Norway), Snowglobe Film (Denmark), Aamu Film Company (Finland), and Filmgate Films (Sweden). The project has received financial support from the Romanian Film Centre, Creative Europe – MEDIA, Film i Väst, and the Western Norway Film Commission. The film’s production team includes cinematographer Tudor Vladimir Panduru and editor Mircea Olteanu, both frequent collaborators with Mungiu.
Anticipation for Fjord
With its compelling narrative and strong cast, Fjord is poised to be a significant entry in European cinema. The film’s exploration of cultural identity, family dynamics, and societal norms resonates with contemporary audiences. As Stan and Reinsve bring depth to their roles, and Mungiu’s direction offers a nuanced perspective, Fjord is expected to make a notable impact upon its release in 2026.