‘Growth of the Soil’ Review: Norway’s Oscar Entry Is a Robustly Classical, Weatherbeaten Rural Epic
Growth of the Soil, directed by Hans Petter Moland, follows a young couple as they build a homestead in harsh Norwegian wilderness, only to face the relentless forces of nature and society. The film, Norway’s Oscar submission, blends sweeping landscapes with intimate performances, echoing classic N…
In the opening scenes of Growth of the Soil, the wind is almost a character in its own right, rattling and moaning through the barren Norwegian landscape. The film, directed by Hans Petter Moland, sets the tone for a story that is as much about the elements as it is about the people who try to tame them.
From Wilderness to Homestead
The narrative centers on Isak and Inger, a naïve young couple who meet by chance in the remote mountains of northern Norway. Their meeting is sparked by a shared need for warmth during a brutal snowfall, and from that moment they decide to forge a life together in a place that offers both promise and peril.
Isak, a stoic and practical man, sees the untamed land as a blank canvas. Inger, who has lived with a cleft palate that has isolated her from society, finds in Isak a partner who accepts her and gives her a chance to build a future. Together, they begin with a temporary shelter, then move on to a hand‑built stone house, and eventually establish a thriving farm that becomes the nucleus of a budding community.
The Weight of Nature and Society
The film’s strength lies in its portrayal of the relentless forces that shape the couple’s destiny. The harsh Norwegian climate is not merely a backdrop; it is a constant threat that tests their resilience. As the seasons change, so does the couple’s relationship with the land, and their survival hinges on their ability to adapt to both natural and human-made challenges.
When the third child is born, the couple faces an unimaginable crisis. Inger’s desperate act shatters the fragile harmony they have cultivated, forcing them to confront the encroaching world of law, taxes, and social expectations. Their once‑isolated life is now exposed to the complexities of a society that is rapidly modernizing.
Crafting a Classic Epic
Co‑written by Moland and Gard B. Eidsvold, the film is adapted from Knut Hamsun’s two‑volume 1917 novel. The adaptation stays true to the literary source’s formal sweep while infusing it with contemporary cinematic techniques. The film’s 155‑minute runtime allows for a detailed, slow‑burning exploration of character development and environmental interaction.
Moland’s directorial style is evident in the film’s rugged austerity. Cinematographer Oskar Dahlsbakken captures the stark beauty of the Norwegian wilderness, while the sound design—particularly the prominent wind—complements the score, creating an immersive auditory experience. The result is a film that feels both sober and transportive, echoing the tone of classic Norwegian epics like The Emigrants and Out Stealing Horses.
Performances That Anchor the Story
Herbert Nordrum delivers a powerful performance as Isak, bringing a quiet strength to the role that resonates with audiences. His previous work in the black comedy The Hypnosis showcased his range, and he carries that versatility into this period piece.
Asta Kamma August, who plays Inger, is a relative newcomer but brings depth to the character. Their chemistry, previously seen in The Hypnosis, is more visceral in Growth of the Soil, as they navigate the emotional turbulence of their shared journey.
What’s Next for the Film
As Norway’s official Oscar submission, Growth of the Soil is poised for international attention. While it may not feature a crossover star like Stellan Skarsgård, its strong performances and authentic storytelling give it a solid chance to resonate with audiences worldwide.
The film’s release at the Toronto premiere marks the beginning of its global journey, and its themes of resilience, adaptation, and the human relationship with nature are universally relevant. Viewers can expect a cinematic experience that is both visually stunning and emotionally compelling.
In sum, Growth of the Soil stands as a robustly classical yet fresh addition to Norwegian cinema, offering a weather‑beaten rural epic that speaks to the enduring spirit of humanity in the face of relentless change.
Why it matters
The film’s exploration of human resilience against nature and societal forces offers a timeless narrative that resonates across cultures, highlighting the universal struggle to carve a place in the world.
Key points
- Hans Petter Moland directs a weather‑driven epic
- Isak and Inger build a homestead amid harsh Norwegian conditions
- The film adapts Knut Hamsun’s 1917 novel
- Herbert Nordrum and Asta Kamma August deliver strong performances
- Growth of the Soil is Norway’s Oscar submission
Frequently asked questions
What is the film’s runtime?
The film runs for 155 minutes.
Who wrote the original novel?
The story is based on Knut Hamsun’s 1917 two‑volume novel.
Where was the film shot?
It was filmed in the remote mountains of northern Norway.
