The review of 'Growth of the Soil', Norway's Oscar entry, showcases its classical storytelling and environmental themes.
Norway’s submission for the Academy Awards, ‘Growth of the Soil’, directed by Hans Petter Moland, has garnered attention for its strong classical narrative and profound environmental themes. The publication's review was published on September 16, 2026, in Variety.
This cinematic adaptation stars Asta Kamma August and Herbert Nordrum as Inger and Isak, a couple navigating the twists of rural life in early 20th century Norway. Their journey unfolds in a dynamic landscape affected both by the elements and societal changes. The natural setting plays not just a backdrop but acts as a living character that shapes their identity and experiences, most notably through the relentless wind that signifies struggle and change.
Adapted from the two-volume 1917 novel by Nobel laureate Knut Hamsun, the film explores critical themes such as survival and the societal transformation brought on by modernization, highlighting the impact on personal lives. As Isak and Inger endeavor to construct their homestead, they face unexpected trials that test their resilience and bond.
The relationship between Inger and Isak is central to the film. They begin as a naive couple, their love fueling their efforts to confront the challenges of life in a harsh environment. Initially unsteady and filled with uncertainty, their bond deepens as they endure both literal storms and the encroachments of societal expectations. Their family life illustrates the push and pull between primal existence and the evolving community they inhabit. The drama peaks when they face personal losses, testing their relationship as they transition from isolation to societal involvement.
With a runtime of 155 minutes, ‘Growth of the Soil’ is a stately yet compelling endeavor that balances traditional storytelling with deep emotional exploration. The film’s cinematography by Oskar Dahlsbakken effectively captures Norway's rugged landscapes, enhancing the narrative's immersion. Critics liken it to large-scale arthouse productions, drawing parallels with classic storytelling aesthetics.
As the characters confront the realities of gentrification and societal evolution, the filmmakers pay homage to the literary depth of Hamsun’s work. The film resonates with themes of resilience and adaptation, making it a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the inevitable changes that accompany progress. The serenity of rural life clashes with the increasingly complex world, leaving the couple with heavy consequences stemming from their choices.
What really sets ‘Growth of the Soil’ apart is its lyrical rendering of human experience against the backdrop of nature's relentless forces. The film illustrates how personal dreams can be irrevocably altered by societal change, leaving the audience to ponder the broader implications of progress on individual lives. The film evokes a compelling question: in the quest for a better life, what sacrifices must one endure?
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