Acclaimed Director Thomas Vinterberg and Goteborg's Artistic Director Pia Lundberg Discuss Swedish Minister of Culture Controversial Remarks

At the opening ceremony of the Göteborg Film Festival, artistic director Pia Lundberg expressed surprise at remarks made by Swedish Minister of Culture Parisa Liljestrand.

During her speech, Liljestrand highlighted the commercial aspect of the film industry, emphasizing that it requires monitoring. She also expressed her belief that it is not politics' role to solely increase funding but to implement policies supported by the majority of Swedish citizens.

Lundberg and Vinterberg, who received the Nordic Dragon Award at the festival, discussed the minister's remarks. Lundberg acknowledged the "tumultuous" start to the event due to Liljestrand's comments, while Vinterberg expressed dismay, calling them "horrible."

Vinterberg declined to offer advice to the Swedish film industry, highlighting its strengths and suggesting that it is on the right path. He acknowledged the challenges facing Danish cinema, including a lack of audience support for young talent, which he believes makes it easy for critics to dismiss them.

However, Vinterberg emphasized the importance of state support and film schools in fostering a strong film tradition. He stressed the need for faith, support, and space for filmmakers to grow.

Addressing Liljestrand's assertion that the industry needs to be "commercial," Vinterberg argued that it is precisely the support system that allows filmmakers to take risks and explore important topics. He referenced his own Oscar-winning film, "Another Round," as an example of the benefits of such support.

Mikael Fellenius, head of Scandinavia's largest regional film fund, Film i Väst, commented on the controversy, suggesting that Liljestrand's opening speech was ill-timed and that she should have used a different platform to address complex industry issues.

The Swedish government is expected to publish a research paper and recommendations in late February on ways to enhance the competitiveness of Swedish cinema.