Being Ola

Norway2023documentary72'Ziemia obiecana (2024)

Ola is a 30-year-old man who lives in a small village in Norway with a very diverse group of people. They try to live life at a slower pace in harmony with nature, and their community is founded on values such as empathy, respect, and mutual interdependence. Ola generally enjoys his life and is an engaged, witty, and sincere individual. He has a mild intellectual disability, and he reflects very openly about his condition. When Ola loses an important aspect of his life, he reflects on his existence and considers how he can become more self-reliant. "Being Ola" is a moving, heartwarming film that celebrates the significance of equality and belonging as a basis for daring to embrace the one you really are. It's a close and honest portrait that helps bridge the gap between 'us' and 'them'.

directed by: Ragnhild Nøst Bergem
A Norwegian award-winning filmmaker and cinematographer, nominated for an Amanda (local Oscar). Her documentaries have played in theaters, on television and at film festivals, both in Norway and abroad. Bergem has won two Gullruten awards (local Emmy), one for "Stay" and another for "Being Ola". She has a distinct and brave voice in storytelling. Her intimate approach to the vulnerable characters in her films makes them share the unspoken. Through Bergem´s work we get closer to people who normally remain silent, and her ambition is to help create change in society.
cinematography: Ragnhild Nøst Bergem
script: Ragnhild Nøst Bergem
music: Eivind Hannisdal
sound: Ragnhild Nøst Bergem, Hugo Ekornes
editing: Helge Billing, Stefan Sundlöf, Ragnhild Nøst Bergem
production: (Einar Film)
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