My Fathers’ Daughter, also known as Biru Unjárga, is a 2024 coming-of-age comedy-drama directed by Egil Pedersen. This is his first feature film, and it will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on 9th September 2024. The movie tells the story of Elvira, a Sámi teenager raised by a single lesbian mother in Unjárga, who believes her biological father is a famous movie star. When she finally meets her real father, she must come to terms with her true identity.
The movie was partly funded by the International Sámi Film Institute and is a co-production between Norway, Sweden, and Finland, the countries that share the Sápmi cultural region. The filming took place in 2023, mostly in Unjárga and Čáhcesuolu.
Where was My Fathers’ Daughter filmed?
My Fathers’ Daughter was filmed in Northern Norway, primarily in the towns of Unjárga (Nesseby) and Čáhcesuolu (Vadsø), which are part of the Sápmi region, home to the Sámi people.
Unjárga, Norway
Unjárga, also known as Nesseby in Norwegian, is a small municipality in Northern Norway and is part of the Sápmi region, which is home to the Sámi people. The beautiful natural landscapes of Unjárga play an important role in the film. The filmmakers wanted to show the authentic life and culture of the Sámi people, and Unjárga provided the perfect backdrop. The scenic fjords, mountains, and vast open spaces helped to create the unique atmosphere of the movie.
Filming in Unjárga was a special experience for the cast and crew. Since the Sámi culture is deeply rooted in the environment, many scenes were shot outdoors in the natural surroundings. This included beautiful shots of the Arctic landscapes, showcasing the unique beauty of Northern Norway. For the local Sámi community, it was an opportunity to share their traditions and way of life with a wider audience.
Čáhcesuolu, Norway
Another important location for the movie was Čáhcesuolu, also known as Vadsø. Like Unjárga, Čáhcesuolu is located in Northern Norway and is part of the Sápmi region. The small town, with its mix of modern life and strong Sámi traditions, offered a contrasting setting for some of the film’s key scenes. The filmmakers used the local environment to highlight the clash between Elvira’s dreams of finding her famous father and the reality she faces in her hometown.
Čáhcesuolu provided a variety of filming spots, from its small streets to the surrounding nature, making it an ideal place for scenes that needed a more urban feel compared to Unjárga. The contrast between the two locations in the movie helped to show the inner conflict Elvira experiences as she searches for her identity.
The Sápmi region, which covers parts of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Russia, is where the Sámi people live. Their culture, language, and traditions are deeply connected to the land. The filmmakers made sure to honor this by choosing locations that reflect the Sámi way of life. Both Unjárga and Čáhcesuolu are important cultural hubs for the Sámi people, and the film showcases the strong ties between the people and the natural world.
In addition to the natural beauty, the film also highlights the importance of family, identity, and community in Sámi culture. By filming in authentic Sámi locations, the filmmakers ensured that these themes came across strongly on screen. The audience will not only see the physical beauty of Sápmi but also feel the emotional depth of its people.
Filming Experience and Challenges
Filming in remote locations like Unjárga and Čáhcesuolu came with some challenges. The weather in Northern Norway can be unpredictable, and the crew had to deal with cold temperatures and changing conditions. However, the stunning natural scenery made it all worthwhile. The filmmakers worked closely with the local Sámi community to ensure that the film was respectful and accurate in its portrayal of Sámi culture.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – My Fathers’ Daughter
Q: Where was My Fathers’ Daughter (Biru Unjárga) filmed?
A: My Fathers’ Daughter (Biru Unjárga) was filmed in Northern Norway, primarily in the towns of Unjárga (Nesseby) and Čáhcesuolu (Vadsø), which are part of the Sápmi region, home to the Sámi people.
Q: When was My Fathers’ Daughter (Biru Unjárga) filmed?
A: Filming for My Fathers’ Daughter took place in mid-2023. The production focused on capturing the natural beauty and cultural significance of the Sápmi region.
Q: When is the release date for My Fathers’ Daughter (Biru Unjárga)?
A: The movie premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on 9th September 2024.
Q: Who are the main cast members in My Fathers’ Daughter (Biru Unjárga)?
A: The film stars Sarah Olaussen Eira as Elvira, Ingá Elisá Påve Idivuoma as Beate, Aslat Máhtte Gaup as Terje, Amund Lode, Ánne Mággá Wigelius, Sara Sofia Mienna, and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau playing himself.
Q: What is My Fathers’ Daughter (Biru Unjárga) about?
A: The movie follows Elvira, a Sámi teenager raised by a single lesbian mother in Unjárga, who believes her biological father is a famous movie star. When she meets her real father, she must confront her true identity and find her place in the world.
