Photo: Norsk FilminstituttA panel consisting of film loving readers of the Berliner Morgenpost, one of Berlin’s largest daily newspapers, has chosen its favorite among the films competing in the main category at the Berlin International Film Festival.
The award was presented to the Norwegian director Hans Petter Moland for his film "A Somewhat Gentle Man", which received tremendous response from the audience and the international press during the festival.
The story of a newly released ex-convict seeking to establish a normal life combined with vengeance against the man who testified against him, was met by an applauding audience after the premiere.
The film was immediately sold to Russia, the Baltic, Benelux and Poland, all in all nine countries, with ongoing negotiations with Germany, France and the United States.
Hans Petter Moland and the script writer Kim Fupz Aakeson were both present to receive the award. Moland said that after receiving the overwhelming response from both the press and the audience, winning the award “is the icing on the cake”. “This is exciting for the future life of the movie, both in Norway and internationally”, said Moland.
Ray Bennett of the Hollywood Reporter describes the film as “an oddball comedy with criminal undertones” and says “it's the kind of film that sneaks up on you and leaves a warm smile”.