Susanne Bier is undoubtedly one of Danish cinema's most celebrated figures in recent years. Not least Bier's latest feature "In a Better World" is adding to her international renown. Running this week in Goa at the International Film Festival of India, the film is now off to the Thessaloniki International Film Festival (3-12 December) heading a retrospective series with seven of her films that span two decades.
In addition, the director will receive the festival's Creative Excellence Award, presented to her by the Greek Minister for Culture in connection with the screening of "In a Better World" on 10 December.
Oscar pick and solid hit
"In a Better World" is Denmark's pick for the upcoming Oscar nominations in the best foreign-language category. Bier's drama about two families, whose lives intersect as ethical principles are put to the test, was launched internationally in Toronto and took home the Grand Jury Prize and an audience award in Rome as well as awards for best direction and best screenplay in Sevilla.
The film, a solid national boxoffice hit, is sold to over 30 countries and has already enjoyed a warm reception in Sweden and Norway where it opened two months ago. Theatrical release in Italy and Spain are set for early 2011, and more countries are being lined up.
Also showing
The Thessaloniki International Film Festival has selected additionally three Danish films, all of which have received international acclaim in 2010: Thomas Vinterberg's "Submarino", Michael Noer and Tobias Lindholm's feature film debut "R", and "Erotic Man" by Danish documentary's grand old man Jørgen Leth.
International sales for "In a Better World" are handled by TrustNordisk.com.
Thessaloniki International Film Festival / 3-12 December
International Film Festival of India / 22 November – 2 December