Elling
Elling

Movie spotlight

Elling

2001
Movie
89 min
Norwegian

40-year-old Elling, sensitive, would-be poet, is sent to live in a state institution when his mother, who has sheltered him his entire life, dies. There he meets Kjell Bjarne, a gentle giant and female-obsessed virgin, also in his 40s.

Insights

IMDb7.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes95%
Metacritic77/100
Google Users90%
Director: Peter NæssGenres: Comedy, Drama

Plot Summary

Elling, a sensitive and artistic man who has spent years in a psychiatric institution, is released into the world with his optimistic and eccentric roommate, Kjell Bjarne. Together, they navigate the challenges of everyday life, attempting to maintain normalcy while dealing with their unique perspectives and struggles with social interaction. Their journey is a heartwarming and often humorous exploration of friendship, loneliness, and the pursuit of ordinary happiness.

Critical Reception

Elling was a critical and commercial success in Norway, lauded for its warm humor, poignant portrayal of mental health, and strong performances. It resonated with audiences for its relatable characters and its uplifting message about overcoming adversity.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its touching and often hilarious depiction of two unlikely friends.

  • Applauded for its sensitive handling of mental health issues with humor and empathy.

  • Hailed for outstanding performances from the lead actors.

Google audience: Google users frequently highlight the film's genuine warmth, its ability to evoke both laughter and tears, and the incredible chemistry between the main characters. Many appreciate its optimistic outlook on life's challenges.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2002. Won multiple Amanda Awards (Norwegian film awards), including Best Actor for Per Christian Ellefsen and Best Film.

Fun Fact

The character of Elling is based on a series of novels by Ingvar Ambjørnsen, who based the character on his own experiences with anxiety and his observations of people with similar conditions.

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